Liverpool desperately missed Ryan Gravenberch as they fell to defeat at Wembley.

The Reds’ summer has been nothing short of sensational, with almost everybody now tipping them as the favourites to win the Premier League.

Despite this, they have not had the most successful season, with their last game before the new campaign being a defeat on penalties to Crystal Palace.

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Liverpool struggled with the tempo of the game a little bit, but mainly had problems in the midfield, with Arne Slot’s side being overrun far too often.

One reason for this was due to the absence of Ryan Gravenberch, with the Dutchman missing due to his wife giving birth the night before.

Reds fans will be desperate for him to get back into the team as soon as possible, although they will have to wait a little while longer to see him return.

Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Gravenberch was one of only three Liverpool players to play over 4,000 minutes last season, with the other two being Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, highlighting just how important he was.

He will likely be just as integral this season too, although he will already have played a game less than most due to being suspended for their curtain-raiser against Bournemouth.

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The 22-year-old was sent off during their final game of last season against Crystal Palace, meaning his suspension carries over to the new campaign.

Not only was this already a worry beforehand, but after seeing just how much he was missed in the Community Shield, his absence may cause a real concern.

READ MORE: Alan Pardew has one big worry for Liverpool this season after watching them in the Community Shield

The Reds lacked the ability at Wembley to break down attacks and get the ball from defence to attack as quickly as possible, something Gravenberch is usually so good at doing.

Palace were also able to play passes through the middle far too easily and allow Jean-Philippe Mateta to hold the ball up, something that caused them real problems.

Liverpool, of course, should not be reliant on just one player but the hole that Gravenberch left was noticeable and nobody was able to fill the void.

Not only was the Reds’ midfield weakened by the unavailability of Gravenberch, but the timing of Alexis Mac Allister’s injury has also been unfortunate.

His minutes are being managed, however, and he played just under 20 minutes against Palace, suggesting he will not be able to play much against Bournemouth either.