Daniel Sturridge scored twice on his return to the starting line-up as Liverpool booked their place in the last eight of the EFL Cup.
Sturridge gave the Reds an early lead when he was in the right place at the right time to convert after Marko Grujic ‘s shot was deflected into his path.
The England striker doubled their lead just after the hour mark when he latched on to Gini Wijnaldum’s pass to slot under Michel Vorm.
Tottenham striker Vincent Janssen pulled one back from the spot to ensure a nervy finish, but Liverpool held on.
Here’s five things we learned:
1. Sturridge marks start with goal
Daniel Sturridge may be struggling in the Premier League, but he is scoring for fun in the EFL Cup.
Sturridge’s effort was his third goal in just 35 minutes of EFL Cup action this season.
Compare that to the Premier League, where he has not netted since April 23.
2. Nkoudou has got character
Georges-Kevin Nkoudou had an awful start to his full Tottenham debut when he lost possession for Liverpool to score.
But the 21-year-old French midfielder, signed from Marseille in the summer, did not let it affect him and was denied an equaliser when Lucas made a great block.
3. Dier continues to grow in stature
Dier was the only survivor from Tottenham’s starting line-up on Saturday and captained their youthful side at Anfield.
He effortlessly took on this extra responsibility as he anchored Tottenham’s midfield and showed his usual great range of passing.
4. Mignolet should not be discarded by Jurgen Klopp
The manager confirmed that Simon Mignolet had been replaced by Loris Karius as Liverpool’s No 1 yesterday and the Belgian showed a great attitude against Spurs.
He was assured in his handling, commanded his area and kicked well to prove he is every bit as good as Karius right now.
5. Marko Grujic can play
Liverpool have great hopes for Grujic and it is easy to see why.
The Serbian midfielder made only his second start against Tottenham and his first instinct is always to go forward.
His shot led to Sturridge scoring Liverpool’s first goal, while he fizzed another effort across the face of the goal.
