Chiesa scores as Liverpool routs Accrington
Liverpool eased into the fourth round of the FA Cup after brushing aside EFL League Two outfit Accrington Stanley 4-0 at Anfield.
Making just his fifth appearance since joining the Reds from Juventus, Federico Chiesa concluded the scoring in a comfortable triumph for Arne Slot's much-changed side.
Liverpool broke the deadlock in the sixth minute with a sweeping counter-attack as Darwin Nunez, who had missed two earlier chances, squared the ball for Diogo Jota to finish.
After concerns about his defensive displays, Trent Alexander-Arnold showed his class in attack, crashing an effort in off the post to double the hosts' lead on the stroke of half-time.
But shortly after the restart, Accrington twice went close to giving its supporters something to celebrate, with Josh Woods striking the crossbar and Donald Love heading wide.
Liverpool, however, made sure of its progression when substitute Jayden Danns tucked the ball home after Billy Crellin's save from Chiesa fell kindly into his path.
Having threatened since coming on to the pitch, Chiesa got the goal his display merited in the closing stages, firing into the net from the edge of the area.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot urged supporters not to get carried away with Chiesa's performance after the Italian replaced Dominik Szoboszlai at half-time.
Chiesa posted more shots (six) than any of his team-mates, while only Darwin Nunez (11) registered more touches in Accrington's box (six).
With the fixtures coming thick and fast, with Nottingham Forest up next in the Premier League, Slot said Chiesa's return to the squad was important moving forward.
"It is definitely a good first step, but as much as I liked the way Accrington Stanley played, we have to take into consideration that we're talking about League Two level," Slot said.
"It is good to have him back on the pitch. He was a threat, but let's not get carried away."
It was also a special day for youngster Rio Ngumoha, who, at 16 years and 135 days old, became Liverpool's youngest player to feature in the FA Cup.
Ngumoha had impressed for the Reds' academy sides to earn a shot at first-team football, and he repaid the faith shown in him by Slot.
"He did well. There were a few moments where the fans could see why we think he's a talent. He is good in one-v-one situations," Slot said.
"He showed a bit more in the first half than in the second half. It is nice to get your debut and get the win. It is a special day for him."
Slot also showered praise on Alexander-Arnold after the Real Madrid-linked full-back's stunning goal.
"Trent didn't have his best game against Manchester United, but for the rest of the season he has been so good for us - I liked his performance today," Slot said.
"Our fans have always given him a lot of support. He didn't play well once, but fans reacted to that. If Trent just plays what we expect from him, then he gets support."
