Southampton 3-2 Liverpool: 5 talking points
One step forward and two steps back has turned into somewhat of a theme for the Liverpool side that looked to be back to their usual ways. 2-0 up courtesy Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge and cruising at half-time, Liverpool seemed in complete control at St. Mary’s before the game turned on its head. Goals from Sadio Mane and Graziano Pelle leveled things up in the second half before Sadio Mane sealed the three points for Southampton with a fantastic finish. Sadio Mane also missed a penalty before the comeback took shape. Let’s have a look at the game’s talking points.
#1 Jon Flanagan, Liverpool captain
The evening began with the Liverpool fans excited with the team news, not for the addition of a player or the removal of one, but for the name of the man who would don the captain’s armband for the Reds.
Jordan Henderson started the game from the substitute’s bench and James Milner was suspended. Martin Skrtel and Christian Benteke, who have previously put on the armband were also on the Liverpool bench.
With Lucas out, the occasion called for a new captain in the ranks. It was surprising however that Jurgen Klopp chose to give Jon Flanagan the honour of leading his side out.
Jon Flanagan, the lone Scouse heartbeat in a side that has seen Jordan Henderson take over the captaincy from Steven Gerrard since his departure, would have been proud and did reasonably well for most of the game. However, it was not to be as Liverpool walked out defeated having given up a considerable lead and control of the game losing 3-2 on the night.
Flanagan however, has had quite a few weeks after returning from long-term injury, inspiring his team to a win against Manchester City after a Cup Final loss to the side just days ago, signing a new contract after much was made of Liverpool allowing it to run out in a few months and finally wearing the armband that every Scouse football fan hopes to put on for his home team.