The Reds’ defensive star returned to the midfield today
Midfield
Lucas Leiva – After speaking of how he learned what it means to play in a derby from his former captain this week, Lucas approached the game like a young Steven Gerrard – nipping at the heels of the home team’s players and generally stamping his mark on the middle of the field. Great battling display. Rating – 7
James Milner – Milner’s presence at the heart of the Reds’ midfield continues to raise questions but those won’t be answered until Jordan Henderson is fit. Milner wasn’t ever able to truly make his mark on the game and didn’t lead the team as a captain. Rating – 6
Philippe Coutinho – A worryingly poor match from the 23 year old who struggling to get a foot in the game. Looked slightly jaded and off the pace – we can only hope the attempts at tapping up from his countrymen aren’t starting to get to him now. Rating – 5.5
