Liverpool v Villarreal Europa League Cup Semi Final 2nd Leg

If Liverpool were happy to play for a draw in the first leg with the clock counting down the last few seconds of the game then Alberto Moreno failed to get the message.

The Liverpool defender was left stranded up field whilst Villarreal attacked the vacant space and scored in the dying moments. It took the shine off of what was otherwise an excellent away performance from the Reds.

Moreno has history for going AWOL at his defensive post and whilst it would be unfair to put the blame entirely on his shoulders for this defeat it is another defensive lapse that places a question mark over his Anfield future. Too many silly mistakes are ruining all the good work.

Liverpool are a transformed side since they limped to a lacklustre 1-1 draw with Everton before Christmas signalling the departure of Rodgers.

That team that was so often described by the manager as “being in transition” is now within touching distance of a Europa League Cup final and play unrecognisable football from the aimless and drifting “possession football” that previous manager Brendan Rodgers favoured.

In its place is a pressing style that won't let the opposition play out of defence without argument and harries them into making mistakes.

Lallana, Firminho and Coutinho have all embraced the work ethic and it's a shame that Divock Origi has had his season effectively ended through injury because of all Klopp's successes he is arguably the most improved Liverpool player of the past few months.

And that is high praise for the youngster who has Lovren, Can, Firminho and Lallana for company in that assessment.

On Thursday Villarreal will come to play on the counter attack and try to stifle Liverpool by playing deep. This is why this game is tailor made for Daniel Sturridge.

If any player can find space in a crowded area and shoot with the minimum of backlift then Sturridge is your man.

Questions have been asked of the managers decision making after the away leg. Sturridge did not feature at all and many fans have been questioning the wisdom of not playing your most lethal striker.

Twitter is a horrible place to be after a defeat with knee-jerk reactions and player abuse that leads one to wonder if some fans are fit to wear the replica shirt.

You can't run a thoroughbred into the ground. Especially one that has been so tragically affected by injury. Sturridge now has potentially two games to play both of which can have a massive impact on the season and he is fit, ready and chomping at the bit. He is the player that can make all the difference for Liverpool on Thursday.

The Reds will have passionate home support, an in form and fit striker worthy of the name and Lovren and Toure look like they can deal comfortably with the Villarreal attack barring Moreno's brain farts.

Villarreal To Win The Europa League Cup 5/2 £10 Returns £35 At Coral - Bet Now

Liverpool To Win The Europa League Cup 5/2 £10 Returns £35 At Coral  - Bet Now