Georginio Wijnaldum showcased his attacking value as the Netherlands recorded a memorable win over World Cup winners France on Friday.
The Liverpool star opened the scoring in the 44th minute when he thrashed home the rebound from Memphis Depay’s close-range effort.
Depay himself wrapped up the UEFA Nations League victory in the sixth minute of second half injury time to relegate Germany from League A’s Group 1.
Wijnaldum’s presence in the box for the opener marked an intriguing theme of his overall performance as he adopted a greater attacking responsibility than seen with him at Liverpool.
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Having regularly plied his trade as a no.6 on Merseyside this season, the Dutchman channelled his playmaking roots to operate in more advanced positions.
An early opportunity saw him burst from midfield to meet a pull back on the edge of the box, only to see his effort well-saved.
He proceeded to offer his support going forward by playing off his frontmen with runs into the penalty area, as well as drifting into the channels to receive the ball.
Besides following his attacking ambitions, there also remained the same steely intensity to retrieve the ball and the reliability as a bridge from defence to attack on the pivot.
Whilst the Reds’ system has undoubtedly been a contributing factor, it has come as some surprise to see Wijnaldum’s attacking expertise reigned in so far this campaign.
Liverpool’s front three could certainly benefit from his support in the final third amid a period where the team has lacked midfield creativity.