Sheffield United’s match under new manager Chris Wilder concluded in a loss as The Blades suffered a hard-fought 2-0 setback at Bramall Lane to Liverpool. Virgil van Dijk gave Jurgen Klopp’s team the lead at the half with his first goal of the year, and Dominik Szoboszlai added another goal in stoppage time. With the win, The Reds close the gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal to just two points.

Following Sheffield United’s 2-0 loss at Bramall Lane in Chris Wilder’s first game back in command, Liverpool closed the gap on leaders Arsenal to just two points.

Earlier this week, the Blades replaced Paul Heckingbottom with the boss who guided them to a ninth-place top-flight finish in 2020, but the Merseysiders maintained their lead.

The hosts fought valiantly and remained more tight, but on minute 37, Virgil van Dijk’s right-wing corner from Trent Alexander-Arnold gave Jurgen Klopp’s team the lead.

After Dominik Szoboszlai’s spectacular save of a second-half shot by Mohamed Salah, the visitors won the game in stoppage time.

As a result, Sheffield United drops to the bottom of the table while The Reds hold onto second place in the standings.

Liverpool will then pay a noon visit to Crystal Palace on Saturday. On Saturday, Sheffield United will play Brentford.

Speaking Point: Liverpool grinds out a tough victory while the Blades demonstrate progress under Wilder

Many United supporters expressed excitement upon Wilder’s return to the dugout for a second stint, and this performance will support the sliver of belief.

The hosts were small, competed fiercely for the shirt, and gave Liverpool serious problems with their counterattack speed and a few late set-piece opportunities.

Even though Liverpool was not at their best, a win like this can help them gain momentum for championship challenges, and Klopp will be happy with a clean sheet as they prepare for more difficult games in December.

Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk was named player of the match. The Dutchman was a reliable presence at the back once more, but this time he also nearly scored a header and chipped in with an important goal. Additional proof that the center back is getting close to peak performance.

Sheff United’s player ratings are as follows: Foderingham 8, Trusty 7, Brooks 7, Hamer 7, Ahmedhodzic 7, Robinson 7, Bogle 7, Souza 7, McAtee 7, Archer 7, Osula 7. Subs: Lowe n/a, Norwood n/a, Traore 6, Fleck 6.

LIVERPOOL: Konate 6, Endo 6, Szoboszlai 7, Mac Allister 6, Salah 6, Gakpo 6, Diaz 7, Alexander-Arnold 8, Gomez 6, Van Dijk 8*, Kelleher 8, Endo 6, Szoboszlai 7. Nunez 7, Jones 6, Elliott 6, Gravenberch n/a as replacements.