Analysing Georgino Wijnaldum’s influential display for Liverpool against Middlesbrough to secure Champions League football

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With the pressure on for Liverpool on Sunday afternoon, the Reds desperately needed to find a breakthrough. Both Manchester City and Arsenal were leading, meaning that only a win over already relegated Middlesbrough would be enough for Liverpool to secure Champions League football.

Up stepped Georgino Wijnaldum in the final minute of the first half to ease the nerves with a powerful strike at the near post flying past Brad Guzan in the Boro goal as a wave of relief emerged at Anfield as the Reds took the lead having seen what could have been a penalty for Middlesbrough not awarded only minutes earlier.

The Dutchman was one of the best performers on the day, regardless of the goal, with an incredible pass completion rate of 93.9% including four key passes and an assist for Adam Lallana to put the game to bed as he made the score 3-0.

With the score still at 0-0, the former Newcastle midfielder was crucial in Liverpool’s attacking play as they looked to penetrate the ten men that Middlesbrough put behind the ball. His vision and smart passing created a number of opportunities, with the likes of Daniel Sturridge going close.

Wijnaldum too had chances of his own, with four shots in total with one of them being the all important opening goal. His calm finish under such pressure was vital for the Reds given that a 0-0 scoreline at half-time could have led to a completely different outcome at the end of the 90 minutes.

Having shown what he is capable of this season, Wijnaldum will expect to be fighting for a regular slot in the starting eleven next season and could be crucial for Liverpool’s European hopes with his work rate, vision and creativity likely to be hugely beneficial in the world’s most elite competition.

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