Liverpool picked up a massive 3-0 win over Burnley in the Premier League earlier tonight.
The Reds needed a win to keep their Champions League hopes alive, and Jurgen Klopp will be delighted with the effort from his players.
Goals from Roberto Firmino, Nat Phillips and Alex Oxlade Chamberlain sealed the three points for the visitors, and they will now be focusing on their final game of the season against Palace at the weekend.
A win in their next game would guarantee them a place in the top four.
Here at Anytime football, we look at the five major talking points from tonight’s contest.
Liverpool must sign a finisher
The Reds had plenty of chances to score in the first half, and the likes of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara missed quality opportunities to put Liverpool ahead.
On another day, the poor finishing could have easily cost them dearly, and the Reds must invest in a quality striker this summer.
Firmino has picked up some form in recent weeks, but he needs more competition. The Brazilian cannot be the undisputed starter for Jurgen Klopp’s side next season.
Nat Phillips deserves a chance next season
There have been rumours that Phillips could be sold this summer, but the young defender has done exceptionally this year, and he deserves to stay at the club next season.
It will be interesting to see if Klopp is prepared to let him be a part of his squad.
Phillips was outstanding against Burnley tonight, and he scored a vital goal for the Reds. He also cleared an effort from Ben Mee off the line to keep a clean sheet for Liverpool.
Thiago Alcantara – a joy to watch
The Spaniard had a mixed start to life in the Premier League, but he seems to have adapted to life in Liverpool now, and he has been outstanding for the Reds in recent weeks.
Thiago ran the show against Burnley today with his passing and pressing. The Spaniard could be a key player for Liverpool next season.
Burnley showed character
Despite having nothing to play for, the Clarets stepped it up and put on a show for their fans.
Burnley kept putting Liverpool under pressure, and they could have easily scored with a bit of luck. The Reds struggled to deal with their directness, and Burnley’s hardworking performance stopped the Reds from creating too many chances in the second half.
Liverpool picking up form when it matters
Liverpool have been abysmal since the turn of the year, and they were expected to miss out on a top-four finish a few weeks ago. However, they have turned a corner, and the Reds have now won 7 of their last 9 Premier League games.
Their recent run of form has left the top four qualifications in their own hands now. A win over Palace in the final game of the season more or less confirms their place in the Champions league unless, of course, Leicester beat Tottenham with a massive number of goals.
