Liverpool Player Ratings vs Monaco: Two Standouts Despite 3-2 Defeat at Anfield

Liverpool fell to a 3-2 defeat to Monaco this afternoon in Andoni Iraola's first game in charge at Anfield, as his side lost the game after having a 2-0 lead. 

The Reds took the lead through Alexander Isak's cool finish in the back of the net inside the first 20 minutes, before Florian Wirtz doubled that lead around the 30-minute mark.

However, a late first-half penalty, a slice of fortune for a Monaco attacker, and a bullet header from a set piece late in the game ensured Monaco left Merseyside with a victory.

But despite this loss, how did each individual player perform, who stood out, and who failed to impress in the Reds' first game back at Anfield ahead of the new season? 

Liverpool Player Ratings Vs Monaco

Alisson Becker: 7/10

Had little to do in the first half but made a couple of smart saves.

Kostas Tsimikas: 6/10

Worked hard going forward but was largely anonymous.

Virgil van Dijk: 6/10

Composed as usual, but his clumsy penalty costs him a point.

Ifeanyi Ndukwe: 8/10

One of Liverpool's best performers. Strong, composed, and impressive in the air. Undoubtedly the breakout star this pre-season.

Jeremie Frimpong: 6/10

Showed his pace going forward and defensively, but lacked real impact on the game.

Dominik Szoboszlai: 7/10

Played a key role in the build-up to Liverpool's opener and was steady throughout; he looks set to continue to be a key player yet again for LFC next season.

Ryan Gravenberch: 8/10

Dominant in midfield and heavily involved in the opening goal, looked like the version of Ryan Gravenberch we saw two years ago.

Cody Gakpo: 6.5/10

A mixed display, but he played a part in Liverpool's second goal, despite his early first-half scuffed chance. Maybe he still has a role at LFC next season, amid links to a transfer to Spurs.

Florian Wirtz: 7.5/10

Lively throughout and scored Liverpool's second goal.

Lewis Koumas: 7/10

Threatening on the right and supplied the ball for Wirtz's goal.

Alexander Isak: 7/10

A few loose touches but finished calmly to open the scoring, Liverpool will be hoping that this is the start o a highly prolific season for the Reds after an underwhelming debut campaign.

Substitutes

Mamardashvili: 6/10

Made some saves but was caught out for Monaco's equaliser.

Endo: 6/10

Solid return from injury and showed his usual hard work and desire that make him such a fan favourite.

Chambers: 5/10

Little impact after coming on, nearly got himself sent off. 

Kerkez: 5/10

Struggled in the physical battle for Monaco's winner.

McConnell: 5/10

Failed to make much of an impact.

Nyoni: 6/10

Impressed more than most of Liverpool's young substitutes, exactly why LFC fans want him in the first team this season.

Ngumoha: 6/10

Looked dangerous when he got on the ball, has all the tools to play both flanks.

Munoz: 6/10

He showed flashes of his ability to take on defenders, exactly what Liverpool were missing last season.

Ramsay: 5/10

Little to do after coming on for the last 15 minutes.

Elliott: 5/10

Received a warm welcome but had little impact in the 15 minutes he was on the pitch.

Chiesa: 5/10

Only had 15 minutes to make an impression, and is seemingly low in the forward line pecking order.

Author's Verdict: Player Of The Match - Ifeanyi Ndukwe

Ifeanyi Ndukwe has been a standout performer for Liverpool throughout the US pre-season tour and continued that form in today's game.

Despite the result, the 18-year-old stood out, showing his maturity, composure on the ball, and his aerial dominance against a strong Monaco side in the first half. 

Liverpool has to loan out the defender due to work permit issues, but it is clear that they have a star defender on their hands, and with the right development, he could go on to be a very valuable asset for the club.