Harry Maguire’s perseverance and character shines spotlight on Liverpool struggles

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Maguire could have been referring to any number of elements in this 2-1 Manchester United victory over Liverpool - not least the lateness of the goal - but there are some parts he will feel more keenly than most. Through that, Maguire himself has been one of United’s most criticised and pilloried figures, often a figure of fun.Harry Maguire scored the winner for Manchester United at Anfield (Getty Images)And yet there he is, persevering and standing tall, to also rise above it all and go for it.

Alexander Isak then had an opportunity that he wouldn’t even have had to think about six months ago.It’s hard not to think some of those misses were a consequence of the confidence crisis afflicting the team right now; that anxiety that grips when you know you have to do it to prevent even greater pressure. They can create chances, sure, but the whole is not right.Arne Slot and the Liverpool hierarchy felt they had to evolve and make significant changes in the summer, but it probably hasn’t gone as expected.Of Liverpool’s five fit major signings - the promising Giovani Leoni is injured - only one looks to have properly adapted, and he didn’t even start.Hugo Ekitike was left on the bench at the expense of Isak, who really just doesn’t look ready.

When he finally comes inside, he doesn’t look sharp.Liverpool's struggles have had a debilitating effect on Mohamed Salah (Getty Images)There’s a fog around the whole team - even Virgil van Dijk, who was partly at fault for Mbuemo’s brilliant opening goal. It’s been almost a year, but that might make this moment all the more significant, especially in terms of psychological effect.This might not have been United as Amorim idealises, but it had elements he will love.