Liverpool line-up reaction underlines change that should worry Man City and Arsenal

There was something wholly apt about the manner in which Liverpool sealed an unexpectedly hard-earned victory against Sheffield United on Thursday evening.

And not only because Cody Gakpo's superb header from a deep Andy Robertson cross highlighted how the Reds can turn defence into attack in swift, devastating fashion.

Both the goal and the assist were delivered by players who had stepped off the bench in the second half, the latest example of how utilising the full squad has proven key to maintaining the Reds' Premier League title challenge while progressing in the Europa League having already lifted the League Cup.

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In total, of the 125 goals Liverpool have scored in all competitions this season, 24 - almost a fifth - have been netted by substitutes, with the bench also contributing 25 assists.

Of course, the relentless injury list and being able to make five substitutions has meant players have often been able to build up sufficient rhythm - so often the watchword under Jurgen Klopp - to not feel as though they are coming in from the cold. The replacements have been ready to play their part.

This campaign, 21 players have already made at least 20 appearances, matching the highest such tally during the Klopp era when the increase in permitted substitutions has offered greater game time to more players.

From as early as August, many of Liverpool's key moments this season have been influenced by replacements. Darwin Nunez's late brace at Newcastle United delivered a statement victory for the 10-man Reds that in many respects set the tone for the two clubs,