Liverpool picked up a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League earlier today to book their place in the Champions League next season.
A brace from Sadio Mane was enough to hand the Reds the only important three points. The likes of Chelsea and Leicester City were beaten, and Liverpool have made the most of that opportunity to secure a third-placed finish.
Here at Anytime football, we look at the four major talking points from tonight’s contest.
Sadio Mane is back to his best again
The Senegalese winger has had a difficult season, but he looked like his former self once again.
His pace and directness troubled the Crystal Palace defence throughout the game, and he managed to chip in with two impressive goals.
It seems that the Liverpool star has been missing the buzz and the energy from the fans, and it will be interesting to see if he can return to his peak form next year.
Thiago Alcantara has calibrated himself for the Premier League
The Spanish midfielder had a shaky start to life in the Premier League, but he has been in outstanding form over the last ten matches.
The Spaniard was once again one of the best players on the pitch today as he orchestrated Liverpool’s play from the heart of the midfield.
He was impressive in possession, and he helped break up the opposition play with his tackling as well.
Thiago has formed a superb partnership with Fabinho at the heart of Liverpool’s midfield, and he could be a key player for the Reds next season.
Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams
The two youngsters have had to fill in for experienced stars like Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez this season, but they have done well in the recent weeks, and they deserve immense credit for helping the Reds secure Champions League qualification this season.
They have been up against physical teams like West Brom, Burnley and Palace in recent weeks, but the two youngsters have held their own, and they have chipped in with impressive contributions.
Farewell for Gini Wijnaldum
The Dutch international has played his last game for Liverpool. His contract with the Reds expires at the start of July, and the Reds have not offered him an extension.
The midfielder put in an impressive display today, and he has been a fantastic servant for Liverpool, and he has been instrumental in their Premier League and Champions League success.
