Liverpool got the result they needed with a 2-0 win over Como at Anfield, but for me, the most interesting part was not just the scoreline. It was seeing some of the new faces and how they are beginning to fit into the team as the new premier league approach.
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Cody Gakpo opened the scoring after a good move involving Jeremie Frimpong, before Jeremy Jacquet doubled the advantage just before half-time. For Jacquet, scoring on his Liverpool debut was a fantastic way to introduce himself to the Anfield crowd.
I thought the young defender looked confident for most of the first half. He was willing to carry the ball forward, made some strong challenges and looked comfortable trying to play out from the back. Of course, it was not a perfect performance. He made a couple of mistakes and was fortunate to have Frimpong cover for him on one occasion, but that is understandable for a young defender making his first appearance.
What impressed me most was how quickly he seemed to connect with the supporters. Hearing his name being sung so early in the game must have given him a huge boost, and then he finished the half by scoring. That is probably the best debut he could have hoped for.
Gakpo also deserves credit. He looked sharp, scored the opening goal and then provided the assist for Jacquet. Frimpong was another player who caught my attention, especially with his attacking contribution from the right-back position.
However, I don't think Liverpool can ignore the second-half performance. The intensity dropped, Como saw more of the ball and Liverpool did not look as dangerous as they did before the break. The clean sheet is a positive, but there is still work to do.
Alexander Isak hitting the post early on was unfortunate, while Florian Wirtz did not have the influence I expected. These are players who will be important when the competitive matches begin.
And that is the biggest takeaway for me. A 2-0 win is good, but the real test is coming at St James' Park against Newcastle.
Liverpool look like a team still finding their rhythm. There are encouraging signs, but there are also questions that need answers.
The season is almost here, and now we wait to see whether these promising pre-season performances can translate into the real thing.
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