It for the long run

we have been unlucky with some decisions.

“I always prefer to support the referee and I think if I don’t say anything about their work in these two games, I will not do so for the rest of the season.

“If we keep the same attitude and same way of work, I don’t have doubt we are able to win quickly.”

But let us admire the authority Liverpool played with at the back.

In this fixture last season they conceded three times, with the last goal – in the final minute – denying them the victory. They went on to blow it against a string of other opponents they should have beaten.

So this was a significant result. “When you win games like this, you feel we’re going to fight to the end for a lot of things,” said Shaqiri.

“So I think we just have to keep going, keep working hard and keep winning.”

Liverpool are now undefeated in 13. Their 33 points is more than they have ever had at this point of a Premier League season.

More importantly, the paltry five goals they have let in is a defensive club record for this stage of a top-flight campaign.

“It’s nice to see that and have this record for the club, it gives you more confidence in the next games,” said Shaqiri.

Jordan Henderson’s 82nd-minute dismissal for a second bookable offence was the one blemish on a fine afternoon for Liverpool.

But Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Roberto Firmino found the net after an hour or so of resistance from the well-organised Hornets.