FA Cup fourth round: 8 talking points from the weekend’s action
(1) McConnell looks the part on debut
Eight of the 20-man squad selected by Jürgen Klopp against Norwich were graduates of Liverpool’s academy.
One of those, James McConnell, was making his first start for the senior team. The 19-year-old from Newcastle slotted in front of the defence, sitting behind Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch.
While progressing through the academy, having joined aged 15 from Sunderland, McConnell was a more attacking midfielder and his eye for an assist could be seen when he saw Jones in space at the back post and chipped the perfect cross for his colleague to head home the opener.
Like Alexis Mac Allister, McConnell is not a traditional No 6 in the role of defensive midfielder but Klopp offers plenty of freedom to his players. The German earmarked McConnell for the role in pre-season and he has lived up to his manager’s expectations.
There is plenty of competition in midfield but McConnell showed against quality Championship opposition that he can more than hold his own in men’s football. Will Unwin
(2) United’s season stumbles on
Will Evans, the farmer turned footballer and Manchester United supporter, gets his toes on the ball to make it 2-2 and send Rodney Parade wild.
His manager, Graham Coughlan, another boyhood United fan, is somehow keeping it together on the touchline but surely bursting inside with thoughts of a potential trip to Old Trafford for a replay.
Not far away, Erik ten Hag’s inner monologue is probably more dire. Is this how it all crumbles, with embarrassment against League Two’s Newport County?
In the end, it wasn’t that bad a night for the visitors in south Wales: Kobbie Mainoo scored his first senior goal, Antony’s right foot delivered a crucial touch, Rasmus Højlund has
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