According to reports, Kostas Tsimikas clashed with Jurgen Klopp on the sidelines on Saturday, breaking his collarbone. Naturally, the Liverpool defender was forced off the pitch, leaving the Reds without a suitable left-back.

After all, Andy Robertson has his own problems. Following shoulder surgery, the Scot has been gone for some time, and it’s unclear when he’ll be back.

Only Joe Gomez remained as a viable alternative for Klopp. Gomez can play left back, but it’s just his third best position; he’s far more comfortable at centre back or right back.

Not that watching him against Arsenal would have told you that. Gomez made his debut after 35 minutes of play and gave one of the most outstanding full-back performances of the season.

The fact that Gomez won six tackles is the standout figure. He not only made the most attempts of anyone on the pitch with six, but he also won each and every tackle. It takes remarkable skill to accomplish it at a match-high, much less in 55 minutes.

Gomez faced perhaps the best player at Arsenal as well. With Gomez’s arrival, Bukayo Saka experienced no real delight on that flank.

Furthermore, only Mohamed Salah and Gabriel Jesus had more shots than the Liverpool defender’s two, and he produced an interception in addition to recording five clearances—the most for Liverpool and the second-highest for the whole game.

It was an impressive performance that demonstrates Gomez’s potential. Despite his ups and downs over the past few seasons, the defender is still one of the best all-around defenders when he performs at his peak.

Ultimately, how many can deliver outstanding performances throughout the back four? Gomez is capable, even in such large-scale games.