Takumi Minamino - square peg, round hole

If he is to prove his worth at Liverpool, Takumi Minamino must improve his versatility in order to secure greater game-time.

Liverpool's first fixture of the resumed Premier League campaign left plenty to be desired.

A greatly-anticipated, warm Sunday evening on Merseyside served as the fixture's backdrop as the reds went toe to toe with local rivals, Everton. Ultimately, however, the build-up proved more exciting than the game itself.

A 'backs against the wall' job from Everton kept the league-leaders at bay for the fixture's entirety, resulting in a goalless draw.

The toffees threatened in the game's final stretch, as the wayward Dejan Lovren replaced an injured Joel Matip on the 73rd minute-mark, leaving Liverpool's defence stretched and vulnerable. The reds, on the other hand, seemed dangerous only in fleeting moments, producing little in the way of clear cut opportunities.

With Salah on the cusp of full-fitness, Klopp instead opted for a match-ready Takumi Minamino, handing him only his 4th Premier League appearance for the Reds.

Though, the Japanese international's performance would receive mixed reviews:

Few can fault Minamino's commitment and drive, characteristics reminiscent of fellow attacker Roberto Firmino.

A clear example of his graft was visible as he pressed former-Barcelona midfielder Andre Gomes, nicked the ball away, and triggered Liverpool's best counter-attacking chance of the game:

Minamino's creative streak and ball retention are reminiscent of the reds' number nine. Furthermore, his mixed performance on the right-wing and regular shifting to a more central position suggest the player might be better suited to Firmino's role as a 'false' striker. However, this may prove an issue, with Firmino having seemingly nailed down his place in Klopp's XI week in, week out.

Against Everton, Minamino's insistence on moving into the middle of the pitch left his partner, Trent Alexander-Arnold, often exposed on the right side and with little license to get forward himself. This saw him replaced at half-time by the pacier and more-positionally disciplined Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who went on to contribute more to the game.

Minamino will have to become more versatile if he is to get game time under Klopp. He needs only look as far as Divock Origi, who has featured more as a left-winger than in his preferred position as a central striker in previous years in order to get appearances under his belt.

It seems a clearly photoshopped Minamino in Sky's line-up graphic may be the most we take away from his performance in an easily forgettable derby.

With today's clash with Crystal Palace fast approaching, it seems unlikely that Minamino will get his second start in as many games.

Let's just hope tonight's fixture is more memorable than the last.