It perhaps wasn’t quite a victory worthy of the BBC soundtrack that preceded the game.
But the relief was no less evident for Liverpool after a difficult few days ended with a much-needed first victory of the calendar year.
This fully-deserved FA Cup third round replay triumph at Wolverhampton Wanderers would have been welcomed regardless of the circumstances in which it was achieved.
AS IT HAPPENED: Wolves vs Liverpool LIVE
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However, that it was achieved by a heavily-rotated side containing a number of players with significant points to prove made it that much more enjoyable. And, for Klopp, somewhat instructive.
Having gone strong for the 2-2 draw between the teams 10 days earlier, the Reds boss made eight changes from the line-up that surrendered so meekly at Brighton and Hove Albion. Rotation, yes, but there’d have been little argument had the players been dropped.
Klopp’s gamble and faith in his squad depth was rewarded. And with it came a performance that, from the very first whistle – well, after the floodlights came back on following a brief power cut early on in the game – was far more recognisable as his Liverpool compared to the showings coughed up in recent weeks.
The pressing and intensity, so lacking on Saturday, was back, aided by the fresh legs and, just as importantly, fresh minds to which Klopp turned. Even the fouling was clever. Liverpool set out their stall and, after being bullied in recent weeks, weren’t going to allow it to happen here.
And their quality was most evident in the game’s decisive moment on 13 minutes, Harvey Elliott gaining possession 10 yards inside his own half and then free to embark on a lengthy run before smashing a superb, dipping 25-yard shot with his left foot beyond Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa.
It was an apt scorer, too, Elliott epitomising the drive and desire that helped the Reds see the game over the line as Wolves threw on the cavalry late on.
The last time Liverpool drew 2-2 at home in the FA Cup third round, they won the replay and went on to lift the trophy back in 1974.
Talk of silverware is looking a bit too far ahead, however. Next up in the competition is a swift return to Brighton – and a chance to atone for events of last weekend. And after this display, Klopp has been given a very welcome selection headache.
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