The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
FIT-again Zimbabwe international midfielder Marvelous Nakamba returned to the starting line-up for Aston Villa, as the Claret and Blue lost 1-2 to title-chasing Liverpool at Villa Park on Tuesday night.
In his first start since the major injury in the reverse fixture in mid-December, Nakamba was given a 7/10 rating by Birmingham Mail, the authoritative publishers of Aston Villa news.
“Nakamba started strongly and nipped in to win key balls to win possession back and put himself in harm’s way.
“A little bit of rust crept in, which is understandable given the level of opposition he was up against on his big game back. Liked his work,” wrote the Birmingham Mail.
The 28-year-old Nakamba lasted 62 minutes before he was replaced by Carney Chukwuemeka.
Three minutes later, Liverpool took the lead via a Sadio Mane header, off a cross by Luiz Diaz.
The BBC reported that Jurgen Klopp’s side suffered a shock within three minutes when Douglas Luiz bundled home after Liverpool keeper Allison failed to hold his header.
“Liverpool were on terms within three minutes when Joel Matip scored following a goalmouth scramble and the sides then exchanged chances before Sadio Mane put the visitors ahead with a superb angled header from Luis Diaz’s cross in the 65th minute.
“The win means Liverpool now lie second only on goal difference before City’s visit to Wolves on Wednesday,” wrote the BBC.
Manchester City and Liverpool are now tied on 86 points but City are ahead by a three-goal advantage.
But, it was the return of Nakamba to the Villa starting line-up for the first time since December that excited Zimbabwean football followers.
The former Club Brugge central midfielder made two key tackles and was on top of his game during a frenetic first half.
Nakamba’s passing was also good, especially his intelligent one-touch passes in crowded areas.
