2 years ago
452 Liverpool produced one of their worst performances of the Jurgen Klopp era last night.
The Reds fell to a 4-1 away defeat at the hands of Napoli, but in reality, the score line could have been much worse.
Napoli raced into a three-goal lead at half-time, despite missing a penalty and having at least one effort cleared off the line.
The Italian side added to their tally quickly after the break, before Luis Diaz scored a consolation goal.
Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
There were poor performances across the park for Liverpool, with few players coming out of the match with any credit.
One player in particular who put in a poor performance last night was James Milner.
The 36-year-old gave away an early penalty that set the tone for the match.
Milner was substituted just after the hour mark, but not before he’d given away four fouls and lost possession nine times.
Milner’s poor performance last night
The national press had their say of Milner’s disappointing performance last night.
Liverpool Echo wrote: “3/10. Conceded a needless penalty early on, was then booked and looked every inch his 36 years.”
I News said, “5/10. Below-par first half and his continued presence for Liverpool shines a light on Klopp’s midfield options.
“A welcome sight for Liverpool fans when Thiago replaced him.”
While The Mirror wrote: “At 36, Milner really shouldn’t be starting in tough matches such as this, just as he shouldn’t have in the defeat at Old Trafford, and while that has sometimes been forced upon Klopp due to injuries it really wasn’t here.
“Was lucky to even see the second (half). 3/10.”
Photo by Ivan Romano/Getty Images
Jurgen Klopp previously said Thiago was fit to start last night, but still opted for Milner.
The 36-year-old struggled at Old Trafford, and looked off the pace last night.
His versatility and experience still make him a useful asset for Liverpool.
However, in important Champions League matches, Klopp should not have to turn to Milner to play in midfield every week.
All eyes will now be on Klopp’s team for their next Premier League match against Wolves.
After Milner’s poor performance last night, it’s unlikely the 36-year-old will be involved from the start again.
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