Dominik Szoboszlai responds to Liverpool mini-slump as Mohamed Salah struggles not alone
Mac Allister blow as Endo and Szoboszlai respond
Finally recalled to his most effective position on the left of the midfield three, it was almost over before it had even started for Alexis Mac Allister.
Just a few minutes in, the Argentina international was left crumpled in a heap on the Bramall Lane turf after being caught by Sheffield United midfielder Vini Souza.
VAR chose not to pursue the incident further. Mac Allister, though, needed lengthy treatment and returned with a heavily-strapped knee protecting a wound that had required stitches.
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Perhaps understandably, he subsequently made a limited contribution for large periods. In fact, his total of just 13 touches in the first half was the lowest of any Liverpool player, made all the more remarkable given the Reds had 80% possession before the break.
Mac Allister had to be alert moments into the second half to track back and halt a dangerous Sheffield United counter-attack from a Reds corner. But within seconds, having already been hurt a second time, he had to admit defeat and was replaced by Curtis Jones.
Mac Allister had been released from number six duties by Wataru Endo, talisman against Fulham at the weekend, being given a deserved start.
The Japanese had an inconsistent first half. After the break, though, Endo revelled in getting stuck in and keeping the Blades pressed back, all while negotiating the best part of an hour on a booking after a needless touchline foul on Auston Trusty.
Dominik Szoboszlai, meanwhile, may not quite be hitting the heights of the early
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