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Liverpool fought back to claim their first Premier League victory of the year with a commanding 4-1 win over Newcastle United at Anfield on Saturday evening.

Following Anthony Gordon's opener for the visitors, Hugo Ekitike struck twice within two minutes to turn the tide before the interval, with Florian Wirtz and Ibrahima Konate adding further goals after the break.

The outcome leaves Arne Slot's men sitting just one point adrift of the top four, having suffered only a single defeat in their previous 16 fixtures across all competitions.

The ECHO was present at Anfield and assessed how the Liverpool squad performed...

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Alisson Becker - 7

Caught by Gordon early doors and occasionally uncertain when dealing with Newcastle's barrage of first-half corners, though his handling proved reliable after the restart.

Dominik Szoboszlai - 7

Reluctant to push forward down the wing initially but dependable in his defensive responsibilities and grew into an attacking force following the interval.

Ibrahima Konate - 9

Outstanding display on his return to the starting XI, dominating Newcastle's forwards throughout. His late strike sparked emotional scenes and was thoroughly merited.

Virgil van Dijk - 7

His aerial strength proved vital defensively as Newcastle bombarded Liverpool's penalty area before half-time, whilst his nous helped secure the victory.

Milos Kerkez - 7

Struggled with Elanga during the opening period and erred by giving Gordon space for the breakthrough, but showed sharp thinking to set up Ekitike's second and grew considerably stronger.

Ryan Gravenberch - 7

Took time to make an impact with his forward play but set up a chance for Ekitike in the first half and was involved in the equaliser.

Alexis Mac Allister - 7

Unintentionally helped Newcastle score the opener and occasionally looked off the pace before finding his rhythm in the second half. Booked.

Mohamed Salah - 7

Played the ball against Hall too frequently in the first half but his willingness to keep running opened up space for teammates and eventually resulted in an assist for Wirtz. Subbed.

Florian Wirtz - 8

Quiet in the opening quarter but determined to get involved, producing excellent work to set up the equaliser and some fine play before scoring the third.

Cody Gakpo - 7

Showed plenty of effort but lacked the final touch in the first half, occasionally frustrating the home supporters. His pressing, however, contributed to the third goal and he started troubling Newcastle.

Hugo Ekitike - 9

The only Liverpool player to threaten Pope early on before finishing his two goals superbly, especially the second. Another outstanding all-round attacking performance.

Curtis Jones (84)

Game time for the Inter target.

Federico Chiesa (84)

Gave the supporters a good reason to sing his song.

Wataru Endo (for Wirtz 87)

Did some Endo things.

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