Liverpool player ratings: Dismal reliable trio as forward duo impress in Arsenal loss

Liverpool huffed and puffed but ultimately couldn't win anything from the game as they were beaten 3-2 at Arsenal in a thrilling and unpredictable Premier League encounter. The Reds are now languishing in 10th place after eight games and must fight to get back into the top four, not to mention the title chase on another disappointing afternoon for Jurgen Klopp's side. They are now 14 points behind league leaders Arsenal.

A Gabriel Martinelli goal and a Bukayo Saka brace secured the points as Mikel Arteta's side put up another test of their league titles despite a spirited effort from the traveling Reds.

Arsenal were ahead after just a minute when Martinelli ran over Martin Odegaard's fine ball and finished with confidence. Liverpool came back strong in a relentless first half as Darwin Nunez was on hand to hide from Luis Diaz's cut.

The action didn't stop there and despite a long period of Liverpool dominance, Arsenal responded by returning to the front right on the stroke of half-time through Saka at the far post.

Liverpool fought back and started the second half in perfect fashion when Roberto Firmino finished superbly on his left foot to open the game.

However, it was Arsenal who pushed the pace and they were the only team that seemed to truly win the contest. That's exactly what they did when Saka converted from the penalty spot after Thiago Alcantara fouled Gabriel Jesus in the box.

Here's how Liverpool's players fared in the bitterly disappointing defeat in north London.

Alisson - 6

He couldn't really have been asked about Arsenal's goals. Made some smart saves but was shaky in the final moments when he failed to communicate with Virgil van Dijk as Jesus fought for a bouncing ball.

Trent Alexander-Arnold - 3

Caught napping for the opener as Gabriel Martinelli went behind to finish in less than a minute.

The right-back was then the victim of an unfortunate sequel which saw Martinelli's foot plant in his ankle.

He persevered, playing a part in Liverpool's equalizer when he launched a long ball over the top for Luis Diaz, who squared in for Darwin Nunez.

Unfortunately, he also played a part in another Arsenal goal. Instead of staying central, Alexander-Arnold tried to clip Martinelli on the wing as the ball headed towards Bukayo Saka at the far post to tap home. Substituted for Joe Gomez at halftime.

Virgil van Dijk - 5

Pretty solid at times on an individual level despite Liverpool's fragile defence. Failed to communicate with Alisson in the closing stages of the match. Among their best players.

Joel Matip - 4

Ropey's performance by his standards. Seemed shaking several times. Passed by Martinelli on one occasion and failed to clear a low cross in the second half. Replaced by Ibrahima Konaté.

Kostas Tsimikas - 5

Brilliantly beat three Arsenal players who pressed relentlessly with good footwork. But he grabbed Jesus with a mean elbow.

Thiago Alcantara - 5

Arsenal were keen to press him every time he was on the ball. He gave away a cheap penalty that cost Liverpool the game.

Jordan Henderson - 5

Performance usually comprised of Liverpool's captain but not their day. Did the right thing by showing Martinelli wide for Arsenal's second goal but he was always going to be beaten for pace. Turned off to let him in.

Mohamed Salah - 4

Mediocre game, very quiet. I didn't really take dangerous attack positions. Stuck on the right and not involved enough. Amazingly subbed with 20 minutes to go.

Luis Diaz - 7

Reserved the first gates for a foul on Gabriel Martinelli. Constant threat, as usual. Great job for the equalizer as he cut the ball for Darwin Nunez.

Went off in the first half after injuring his knee. Liverpool need him ASAP so Jurgen Klopp will keep his fingers crossed.

Diogo Jota - 6

Had a penalty yell pushed back after Gabriel handled in the box. Generally pointed. Saw Martin Odegaard booked for a late lunge from behind as Jota avoided him. Subtitled.

Darwin Nunez - 7

One of his best games for Liverpool, if not his best. Lively start as he ran free in the fairway behind the Arsenal defence. It was back soon...