Florian Wirtz's deflected goal ensured Liverpool escaped with a 1-1 draw against Sunderland on Wednesday, though it came after yet another concerning defensive display from the Premier League title-holders. The Reds looked set for defeat following Chemsdine Talbi's opener, but a piece of brilliance from their German summer signing salvaged a point.

After ending a poor run of results with a win over West Ham in their previous outing, Liverpool once again lacked inspiration in the first half. They created little in attack, while Sunderland looked composed and dangerous, showing glimpses of the form that has made their start to the season so impressive.

The visitors hit the woodwork twice through Trai Hume and Omar Alderete before eventually taking the lead. Talbi was given far too much time on the edge of the box and his shot deflected off Virgil van Dijk, looping into the far corner for the opener.

Liverpool found it difficult to break down Sunderland’s organised defence, but fortune favoured them when Wirtz weaved through the penalty area and his scuffed shot deflected off Nordi Mukiele, looping in for an own goal to level the score.

Here’s how Liverpool’s players performed at Anfield:

Goalkeeper & Defence

Alisson Becker (4/10):

Was fortunate when an uncertain save ricocheted onto the bar. Could do little about the goal itself.

Joe Gomez (4/10):

Picked up a booking for a late challenge early in the second half. Less composed compared to his performance against West Ham.

Ibrahima Konate (4/10):

Lacked authority at the back, which compounded issues alongside a struggling defensive partner.

Virgil van Dijk (2/10):

Lost possession cheaply and then failed to close down Talbi for the opener. His hesitation proved costly as the shot deflected off him and into the net, capping another poor showing from the captain.

Andy Robertson (5/10):

Delivery from wide areas was inconsistent, though he wasn’t heavily tested defensively.

Midfield

Ryan Gravenberch (6/10):

Looked the most inventive midfielder, creating three chances and trying to inject some creativity into the side.

Alexis Mac Allister (5/10):

Went close with a header but remains below the high standards he set in previous seasons.

Florian Wirtz (7/10):

Showcased his trademark agility and quick feet throughout. Played a key role in the equaliser, though it may go down as an own goal since his effort appeared to be off target.

Attack

Dominik Szoboszlai (5/10):

Struggled on the right wing, with his link-up play alongside Gomez lacking fluency.

Alexander Isak (4/10):

Still looks short of full sharpness despite scoring in the previous match.

Cody Gakpo (3/10):

Had minimal impact and was substituted at half-time after a quiet display.

Subs & Manager

Mohamed Salah (4/10):

Tried to make things happen but couldn’t produce a decisive moment despite his efforts.

Curtis Jones (6/10):

Brought energy off the bench and made a vital run that contributed to the equaliser.

Hugo Ekitike (5/10):

Had limited involvement during his 20-minute appearance.

Milos Kerkez (6/10):

Looked composed and played some incisive passes into attacking areas.

Federico Chiesa (7/10):

Came on late in search of a winner but ended up making a crucial goal-line clearance to keep the score level.

Arne Slot (4/10):

Still struggling to find consistency with this Liverpool side. Their attacking rhythm remains disjointed, and defensive issues continue to plague the team.