Ryan Gravenberch delivered NEAR PERFECT Liverpool performance v West Ham

Liverpool faced a lot of negativity on Saturday as they drew 2-2 with West Ham United and fought among themselves. One player gave them reason for optimism.

Liverpool came away from their 2-2 Premier League draw at West Ham United feeling very negative. After all, they dropped more points, spurned more chances, and even fought with themselves.

But there was reason for optimism in it all. It came in the shape of Ryan Gravenberch, who quietly went about a performance that showed his true potential.

That potential has always been wonderful, which sparked Liverpool signing him for £34m last summer. Here it was on show as the Dutchman put in a near-perfect performance.

The biggest positive is clear - Gravenberch's dribbling. He completed seven on the day, two more than any other player on the pitch. Notably, he did it from eight attempts, so also finished with the highest success rate of anyone attempting more than one.

It's always been Gravenberch's biggest strength and it's what can make him a game-changing midfielder. Few have his ability to get through the lines and break defences down on the ball like he has - let alone with his physicality.

But it's also selling him short to suggest that's all he offered here. Gravenberch also created two chances, won himself a tackle, and got three shots off at goal. It was the exact midfield performance he was signed for.

It's also one that will have intrigued the almost-certainly-watching Arne Slot.

Ryan Gravenberch shines

Gravenberch is set to stay at Liverpool this summer as he isn't interested in a move away, despite speculation. Performances like this show why it's important he remains with the club.

Gravenberch's talent has always been there, it just comes out inconsistently. It's why people must remember just how young he is - the midfielder doesn't turn 22 until next month.

Regular showings like this could mean Liverpool have a very special player on their hands. One who certainly gives us reason for optimism right now.