Premier League 2018-19: 5 players who have exceeded expectations

#3 Joe Gomez (Liverpool)

Gomez has been the perfect foil for Van Dijk

Virgil Van Dijk arrived in January and quickly revolutionised Liverpool’s backline with his solid and commanding presence. A leaky system suddenly transformed into one of the most water-tight defences in the land.

Despite Van Dijk masking a majority of their defensive shortcomings, one still remained: a trusted partner for the Southampton recruit.

Though Dejan Lovren was a capable defender, he was prone to making the odd mistake in a big game. Therefore, the emergence of Joe Gomez as a defensive rock this season has eased a lot of Klopp’s headaches.

The young, burly Englishman has been solid at the back and has been the perfect foil for Van Dijk. With the duo forming a formidable partnership, Liverpool’s attackers and midfielders have enjoyed more freedom going forward.

Gomez initially shot to prominence a couple of years back. However, a serious knee injury robbed him of vital playing time at Anfield. With him having seemingly put his injury problems behind him, he looks a prime contender to be a colossus at the back for club and country.

While no one ever doubted Gomez’s potential, his exponential rise this season has certainly exceeded everyone’s expectations.