Jurgen Klopp is far too long in the tooth to hold plentiful stock in a single performance.
But there was sufficient evidence on this astonishing Champions League evening to tentatively suggest that, after a dismal start to the campaign, Liverpool may finally be spluttering into life.
Certainly, there have been fewer more emphatic statements under the Reds boss at a time when he and his players desperately needed it.
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And for individual players, it proved an evening in which reputations went some way to being restored.
None more so than Mohamed Salah. Named among the substitutes with one eye on Sunday’s Premier League blockbuster clash at home to Manchester City, the Egyptian could have no qualms had be been dropped regardless after an underwhelming season was encapsulated by being hooked following a below-par display in the weekend loss at Arsenal.
But having been thrown on midway through the second half here at Ibrox, Salah responded in remarkable fashion, netting a hat-trick of outrageously impressive finishes in six minutes and 12 seconds – the fastest treble in Champions League history. Who knows? Perhaps he should be benched more often.
Liverpool, though, were already in control of the match thanks to another stellar performance from the player few would have expected to be so integral this season.
If Roberto Firmino wants to extend his Anfield career beyond the end of the season, he is going about it the right way.
Another two goals – after Liverpool had once again shipped the opener – and a delightful backheel assist for Darwin Nunez were the highlights of an impressive display in the advanced midfield position, a role ready-made for Firmino at this stage of his career.
Now on eight goals, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane are the only Premier League players have scored more times for their club this season.
Throw in a late first European goal for Harvey Elliott and three assists for Diogo Jota, there was plenty for the travelling Liverpool support to cheer as the gaps in the Ibrox stands left by disgruntled departing home fans matched those of the Rangers defence during the blisteringly one-sided final quarter.
The season starts here? Klopp will have a much better idea after the weekend. But this was a much-needed step in the right direction.
This story was first published on October 12, 2022.
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