Joe Gomez’s return to Liverpool’s starting lineup proved crucial as the Reds secured a 2-0 victory over West Ham that ended their alarming run of defensive fragility. The versatile defender, making his first start of the season outside of League Cup fixtures, was deployed at right-back despite requiring a knee injection just last week—a decision that underscored Liverpool’s injury crisis.
Gomez’s selection was necessitated by injuries to Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, leaving manager Arne Slot with limited options in the right-back position. However, the tactical adjustment to accommodate him proved beneficial. Rather than leaving Gomez exposed as Mohamed Salah’s presence on the right wing had done to previous defenders, Slot deployed Dominik Szoboszlai in that position to provide defensive cover.
The Hungarian international’s work rate ensured Gomez received adequate protection throughout the match, addressing one of Liverpool’s primary defensive concerns from recent games. The new 4-2-3-1 formation, with its emphasis on defensive solidity over attacking flair, represented a significant departure from Liverpool’s traditional approach but one that circumstances demanded.
Gomez handled his defensive responsibilities competently, though he wasn’t seriously tested by a West Ham side that offered minimal attacking threat. His positioning and communication helped organize Liverpool’s backline, which had shipped three or more goals in three consecutive matches for the first time in 75 years prior to this fixture. The clean sheet, Liverpool’s first in league action for some time, will provide significant psychological relief.
The victory demonstrated that Slot’s tactical adjustments can work when personnel is properly balanced. While Gomez’s long-term role in the team remains uncertain once injuries clear, his performance suggested he can still contribute meaningfully when required. For Liverpool, simply keeping a clean sheet represented progress after their recent defensive nightmares, regardless of the opponent’s limited quality.