Auf Wiederschen, Herr Wimmer

And goodbye to the League Cup as well… I’m not sure which of the two are least worthy. But as for our unhappy Austrian, well sir, you had your chance tonight and now Poch has every reason to bury you on the bench or let you go in the winter transfer window.

The outcome doesn’t distress me—this was always the least appetizing aspect of a crowded fixture list that includes Group survival in the Champions League and an intense competition for Top Four placement growing more fervent with ever week. The poor defending is lamentable but even that can be fawned off on two inexperienced center-backs and one very poor give away by Georges-Kevin Nkoudou. The story that persists is this team’s inability—with whatever combination of players is featured (absent one Harry Kane)—to score or even come close to scoring. Lamela winning the penalty was something—but it was thin gruel before that and, to be fair, Jon Moss’ decision was generous. At least it sparked some genuine offensive thrust in the final twenty minutes or so.

Onomah in particular failed to shine—Janssen did what Janssen does—holds up defenders and tries to find teammates who were lacking spark or imagination. Yes he got the penalty but we must see more. The other forwards and midfielders were nondescript until Lamela entered the scene. Winks and Carroll were given a chance and basically failed the test. Winks had the late run but the shot was poor. As for the second possible penalty, I’m not sure. Maybe the fact that the first was a bit soft affected the decision. Wanyama’s entrance made a difference at both ends of the pitch, but Sturridge could easily have iced the game but for an incredible touch by Vorm—his second of the half. He then stung Ings as well after Harrison botched an easy goal opportunity and you can’t say it wasn’t fun, can you?

Crucial games against Leicester and Leverkusen await—let’s the hope the “L” on the score sheet stops with Liverpool.

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