There was a case for him but as a LEFT WINGER, why complicate a simple matter to the detriment of effectiveness?That's serious. We had too many players who were too slow in taking action on the pitch. Liverpool were getting back and then our passing and movement couldn't penetrate the side.
Townsend has the ability to run with the ball and be more direct. I hoped that we would see that side from him today but nope. Instead, like most of the others, he was useless.
Left footed players on the left and right footed on the right, unless they are effective in delivering first time crosses with either foot. Most players, even those totally one footed can swing a shot with their weaker foot, so if they want to cut inside and do so, great, but for GHod's sake play them where they are effective.
Everyone of Pool's players knew Lamela and Townsend would cut in.
Also, Mignolet is weak on crosses, why no corners on top of him and why did we not go to 4-4-2 to exploit this, especially when we went 2 down, by bringing on Kane.
Players were not the only ones who did not see the picture.
Last week it was right not to lob crosses into the 6 yards box as Caulker, Rio and Dunne would have gobbled them but this week it was worth a go.