5 unlikely players driving Liverpool's top four challenge in 2017

Modified Apr 20, 2017 07:50 GMT

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND - APRIL 08: Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool celebrates his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Liverpool at Bet365 Stadium on April 8, 2017 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) — *Jurgen Klopp’s man-management is yielding results in the form of players stepping up when needed*

#4 Divock Origi

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 05: Simon Francis of AFC Bournemouth chases Divock Origi of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool and AFC Bournemouth at Anfield on April 5, 2017 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — *Divock Origi (right) is leading the line admirably for Jurgen Klopp’s side*

One of the reasons Liverpool struggled in Mane’s absence in January was that Origi and Sturridge lost form and it hurt the team. This time around, Origi has grabbed the opportunity with both hands. He scored after coming on for the Senegalese against Everton to put the match beyond their reach and then scored again in the match against Bournemouth.

In the next two away wins at Stoke and West Brom, Origi put in superb shifts in attack by linking up play, always providing an outlet and not getting bullied by the opposition defence. This was the form the Belgian was in last season when he led the line ahead of Sturridge. His form and goals have helped Liverpool deal with Mane’s loss effectively this time around and the results are there for all to see.

In putting up his hand when needed, Origi has shown he is ready to lead the Liverpool front line in the coming years and if this form continues, he might very well be the first-choice striker at the start of next season.

Edited by Staff Editor