ReactionRyan Gravenberch: I'm playing with more freedom - and I'm really happy
Ryan Gravenberch explained the increased freedom he is thriving on having for Liverpool, after starring in the Merseyside derby victory on Saturday.
The midfielder provided a goal and assist as the Reds defeated Everton 2-1 at Anfield, extending their 100 per cent start to the Premier League season to five games.
He opened the scoring with a delightful, hooked finish from Mohamed Salah’s pass and then served the through ball from which Hugo Ekitike added the hosts’ second of the afternoon.
After the win was secured at the end of a tense second half, Gravenberch reflected on the encounter by speaking to TNT Sports pitchside. Read a summary of the chat below…
On the feeling of scoring in a derby…
I’m really happy with the goal. Last season I didn’t score a lot, so I’m happy that I could score. Especially in the Merseyside derby as well.
On the technique and move behind the goal…
We know if Mo has got the ball, he has an incredible pass. We know if someone is on the ball side, they have to go through and the space is coming behind. I saw it and I went in behind… and I did a thing!
On back-to-back home wins over Atletico Madrid and Everton…
Yeah, really happy with that as well. We had three games in seven days. We know in England it’s really tough. But we prepared well and at the end we are happy with the three points, so we keep going now.
On a difficult second half against the Blues…
First the goal we conceded, I think that didn’t need to happen. It was that, and then we know if they score the 2-1 they will come, they will come, they will come. We were a little bit going back and going for the counter. We had chances to score at the end but we didn’t, and it will be difficult.
On ‘taking his game to another level’ this season…
It’s the coach that gives me the confidence. This season we have more freedom in the midfield. Last season I was only on the six, like deep, deep. Now I can go more forward, which you saw today. My strength is also there. I’m happy with that and also happy with the goal.
On Arne Slot’s biggest strengths as a coach…
He’s very clear. What comes to his mind, he tells you. And also the tactical part is really good.
On whether Liverpool have ‘lots of gears to go to’ as the season goes on…
Yeah, of course. We know we have a good group. We bought players as well, really good players, so we know it’s not only the starting XI, it’s the whole team. We are like a family, so we push each other. You see now for example, Hugo scored today and then [Alexander] Isak comes in and gives his all. I’m really happy with the squad.
On if he wants to add more goals and assists to his game…
Yeah, that’s what I said – last season, I think I didn’t even score. So, of course this season I want more goals and assists. I’m really happy with today.
On enjoying the rest of the weekend after winning the derby…
Now we are top of the league and it’s always nice to win a Merseyside derby. I’m really happy, going to recover and we keep going on Tuesday.