Jesus, that was not great viewing from a defensive purist POV, we were all over the place at the back, with yet another Keystone Cops/ Benny Hill display at the back. What was most worrying is that we had almost our strongest defensive line-up, with Agger and Johnson back, and only long-term absentee Enrique missing.
It's easy to blame "individual mistakes" but a good defence is a collective; a unit. We don't have one and it requires serious investment and work over summer and from now until the end of the season. I have talked an awful lot about Mignolet's weaknesses, of which there are many, but he has no presence and control of his area at all. He reacts to crosses like a Translyvanian Count on a sunny beach. We obviously miss Carragher, not just from a defensive excellence perspective, but his organisational skills. Skrtel had a scrappy game indeed, and Agger was equally culpable.
But they were again given less than amazing protection from a ragged midfield, which only highlights the requrement for midfield reinforcements in summer. A player like Matic at Chelsea, ideally. Shelvey, who is neither quick nor exactly subtle in his movements was allowed to amble into dangerous positions at will, and eventually scored that magnificent goal (and much kudos to him for the subdued celebration, which was rightly acknowledged by The Kop, a lovely moment).
Mignolet (5). Not much chance with the goals, but he was to blame for lack of organisation, communication and presence. Distribution and kicking terrible as ever, but made several good stops. Which is what he's been doing all season.
Skrtel (4). Having a good season, but this was not a display he will enjoy watching again. All over the place at times.
Agger (4). Like Agger a lot, but when you're subbed off for Kolo Toure, you know you've not had a great game. Found Bony a proverbial "handful" and looked rusty.
Johnson (4). Good to ahve him back, but a below-par display. Gave Bony and co far too much freedom in and around the box
Flanno (6). Another solid display and didn't let the disparity in pace between him and Routledge overwhelm him.
Gerrard (6). Needed more help than he got from the rest of the midfield. Typical great passing and drive, and unlucky with shot that came off the post.
Coutinho (5). Average. Some nice movement, but not involved enough and Swansea's midfield ran rings around ours in general.
Henderson (
. Two goals - one a quite splendid strike - and the usual energy and stamina. But should have done more to bully Shelvey and De Guzman in particular, who were too influential.
Sterling (6). Quite splendid pass for Sturridge's first, but should have used his pace more to get in behind Swansea.
Suarez (7). The drought continues. Brilliant cross for the third goal and worked hard to create chances for himself and others. The goals will return, but he is playing a bit too far away from goal.
Sturridge (9). Probably the best striker in the Premiership at the moment. He looks as if he will score at any moment and his movement and pace is simply deadly. Skilful and merciless. Great player.
