Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson is proud of the way he managed to keep Bukayo Saka ‘quiet’ during a clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium earlier this year.
Saka enjoyed a fine campaign for the Gunners, playing a key role for Mikel Arteta’s side in their push for the top four.
The 20-year-old was on the shortlist for the Premier League Player of the Season award, which eventually went to ’s Kevin de Bruyne.
Robertson, who has built up a reputation as a marauding full-back for the Reds, admits he has taken more confidence from matches not revolving around goal involvements, citing an example where he limited the impact of Saka.
‘The goal involvements have been big,’ Robertson told . ‘Not as much has been said about that, so maybe I have not taken as much confidence from that this season.
‘I have taken more confidence from games where I have not had goal involvements. For instance, away is always one I go to [Liverpool won 2-0].
‘I know how good [Bukayo] Saka can be and I know in that game I managed to keep him quiet. That was not a big factor in us winning, but a big factor in Arsenal not winning because he is one who sets the tone for Arsenal.
‘He is so direct, creates chances and I know in that game I managed to keep him quiet. Another one, maybe Man Utd at home. Two goals, the third and the fourth, I won the ball back. I start the goals off but you don’t get a stat for that.’
Liverpool take on Real Madrid in the Champions League final on Saturday night as they aim to secure a treble.
Jurgen Klopp’s side have already won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, but narrowly lost out to Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
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