On first evidence, it seemed as if Joe Allen had really fluffed a great opportunity to give Liverpool the lead that only inadvertently fell to Jordon Ibe at the far post v Stoke this evening…
It seemed as if the 25-year-old has scuffed a side-footed shot, which thankfully landed at the wonderkid’s feet to give us a 1-0 lead.
But actually, a second angle clearly shows the Welshman, who arguably enjoyed his best performance of the season, taking two quick looks to his left – before telling his younger team-mate to stay wide of him.
Did he mean it? If so – what a pass!
A more telling question should perhaps be why Allen has so rarely been able to reach these levels since his £15m switch from Swansea in 2012…
On this evidence, whether he meant that assist or not, Allen’s a valuable member of the side. With the growing number of injuries he’ll badly need to maintain this form.