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KEY MAN: Joe Gomez

LIVERPPOOL YOUNGSTER proved vital as his team won a dramatic derby against Everton on December 2.

The Reds took the win with a Divock Origi strike in the sixth minute of extra time but Gomez had played his part earlier in the match.

Gomez’s first half clearance off the line from a Andre Gomes close range header, helped his team to victory after a very entertaining 232nd Merseyside encounter.

London-born Gomez, who joined Liverpool from Charlton Athletic in 2015 for £3.5 million, has been instrumental this year in the Reds’ quest for honours which has also bagged him a permanent place in the England squad.

Only recently he received high praise from Rio Ferdinand, arguably the best the defender to grace the Premier League.

Like many others, Ferdinand has noticed Gomez’s defensive talents, remarking in a recent interview that he is a tremendous prospect and talent. The youngster proved those traits again with his defensive work to deny Gomes.

Post-match Gomez told the press “It’s a special fixture, everyone knows the history and how much it means for the club and players.”

The dramatic winner came when Everton and England ‘keeper, Jordan Pickford, failed to catch Virgil van Dijk’s miscued shot and Origi was on hand to head home to earn Liverpool all three points, prompting manager Jurgen Klopp to run onto the middle of the pitch to celebrate with his team.

Liverpool’ defence has conceded just five goals in their first 14 Premier League games this season, of which Gomez has been an instrumental part of their solid back line.

The Anfield club remain second in the table, just four points behind northwest rivals, Manchester City.

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