Liverpool’s Jon Flanagan impressed in his second Merseyside Derby in succession.
Last November there were concerns when Jon Flanagan was thrown into the Liverpool side for the match at Goodison Park, but the chance has been the making of him.
He has become one of the more dependable performers in the Liverpool defence, so much so that he was called upon at right-back for the return fixture.
The youngster impressed, showing his versatility and usual tenacity, this time helping the Reds keep a clean sheet during their 4-0 demolition of Roberto Martinez’ side.
Flanagan completed 81 per cent of his passes, comparable favourably with left-back Aly Cissokho (64%).
He made one successful tackle and two interceptions, in a match where he was not placed upon nearly as much pressure as Liverpool were in the 3-3 draw last Autumn.
Overall, Flanagan has made more successful tackles per game than any other Liverpool defender since forcing his way into the team, as displayed below:
| Player | Team | Won Tackle / apps | Apps | Mins |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jon Flanagan | Liverpool | 2.50 | 8 | 635 |
| Glen Johnson | Liverpool | 1.88 | 17 | 1,441 |
| Mamadou Sakho | Liverpool | 1.67 | 12 | 1,029 |
| Andre Wisdom | Liverpool | 1.50 | 2 | 81 |
| Kolo Touré | Liverpool | 1.47 | 15 | 1,137 |
| Aly Cissokho | Liverpool | 1.30 | 10 | 757 |
| Daniel Agger | Liverpool | 1.18 | 11 | 807 |
| José Enrique | Liverpool | 1.00 | 8 | 602 |
| Martin Skrtel | Liverpool | 0.90 | 21 | 1,872 |
| Martin Kelly | Liverpool | 0.75 | 4 | 91 |
His performance, while overshadowed by the likes of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, did not go unnoticed and was heralded by countless Liverpool supporters.
Likened to a young Jamie Carragher by many in terms of his attitude, Flanagan’s breakthrough is turning into one of the success stories of Liverpool’s season, and long may it continue.
With Glen Johnson’s long-term future at the club uncertain, Flanagan helped shows the club do not lack depth at the position.
Here’s a look at how Liverpool fans reacted on Twitter to his display:
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