During the first 45 minutes he had again been instrumental in Liverpool controlling the midfield and tempo of the game.
Thus far, Alonso has arguably been our best player this season and any extended absence from the team would be cause for concern.
My only other concern from the fixture was Ryan Babel’s failure to really make his mark on the opposition.
He remains a gifted talent but all too often seems peripheral to the action. Albert Riera, meanwhile, illustrated what a sound addition he has been to the team. He has provided width, pace and a goal threat.
Again, reflecting on the starting 11 at Burnley in 2005 it is staggering how far the club has progressed.
During the Christmas break I had a chance to read Jamie Carragher’s excellent autobiography and was struck by the description of his first meeting with Benitez at the 2004 Euros.
Apparently Carra, Owen and Gerrard emphasised the need for wholesale change.
Looking good in the league, hopefully set for runs in the FA Cup, Champions League and in Torres, Reina, Mascherano, Alonso, Gerrard and Carragher, possessing players worthy of any Liverpool era, that change is well underway.
Saturday was another step forward.
