Gravenberch makes Liverpool tick

Ryan Gravenberch flourished as Liverpool's holding 'number six' last season and, while that is still his designated role, Arne Slot is allowing greater freedom this term to maximum effect.

While his defensive numbers on tackles, clearances and winning possession are almost identical to last season, Gravenberch has been getting on the ball in central areas higher up the pitch in this campaign.

He did not score a league goal in 37 appearances last season, but already has two in four appearances this season, including the opener in the Merseyside derby win against Everton at Anfield.

In Liverpool's 1-0 win at Burnley Gravenberch had four shots and created four chances. In contrast, there were 11 league games last season in which he did not have a shot or create a chance. He has done so in all four games this time.

Former Liverpool and England midfielder Danny Murphy told BBC Sport: "He has been Liverpool's best and most important player this season.

"He missed the first game at home to Bournemouth and also the Community Shield against Crystal Palace. They looked quite wide open in the Bournemouth game because of his absence.

"When he came back in you could see the difference. He has attributes very few midfielders have, which is brilliant spatial awareness plus the ability to glide past people.

"There are not many central midfield players who can carry the ball through the lines. Most midfielders are passers through the lines.

"He is a terrific passer, but his great body movement allows him to let the ball run across him, then he has that great athleticism, which allows him to glide past people effortlessly."