Liverpool were frustrated by Newcastle United in an end-to-end score draw.

Philippe Coutinho had handed the Reds a first-half advantage at St James’ Park with a stunning long-range strike just on the half-hour mark.

But Rafael Benitez managed to get the better of his former club when some lax defending by Joel Matip allowed Joselu to pull the hosts back on level terms.

Here were the key talking points from Tyneside:

Salah endures an off-day

 

Mohamed Salah has undoubtedly been Liverpool’s brightest spark this season.

However a lethargic performance at St James’ Park was a perfect example of why other clubs have a greater strength in depth in wing positions than the Reds.

With a first touch that was often lacking, the Egypt international found it difficult to get a foothold against Newcastle’s robust defensive line.

A ballooned effort off a rebound from Rob Elliot summed up his afternoon in a situation where, in truth, he would have buried the chance just weeks earlier.

With the international break looming, it could prove a nice opportunity for Salah to come back rejuvenated in time for the showdown with Manchester United.

Can wasted on the bench

 

This was a perfect game for Emre Can’s drive and creativity in midfield.

Clearly Jurgen Klopp disagreed but the German was exactly what Liverpool needed as they often lacked any real structure in the middle of the park.

Bringing on two strikers and a winger appeared an odd decision without the engine that Can would have provided, especially with his nack for scoring goals.

At times, Jordan Henderson left a lot to be desired. Even with him as captain, Can may eventually prove to be his replacement in the starting eleven.

If results as drab as this one continue, it may happen sooner than anticipated.

Moreno doesn’t deserve a starting role

 

Alberto Moreno may have proven fairly creative this season but he was quite simply non-existent during Liverpool’s latest trip to the North East.

He failed to deliver a single cross into the box that found a team mate’s head until the 88th minute.

There is no question about the man from Sevilla’s commitment; he ran all game, but if that is the benchmark of quality then it is a sorry state of affairs.

Klopp may be unconvinced that Andy Robertson is ready for a regular run of games at left-back but it is the right time to see him – not Moreno – play.

Coutinho shines but still needs help

 

Any concerns about Philippe Coutinho’s commitment to Liverpool have been well and truly put to bed in the past eight days.

It may be difficult to keep hold of the talented Brazilian after next summer’s World Cup and it may be a case of appreciating his brilliance while it is still here.

But stunning strike in the type of game where similar players may have thrown their proverbial toys out of the pram threw up another conundrum for Klopp.

Liverpool will still need goals and assists from the creative role occupied by Coutinho – especially with their flying wingers having off-days like this one.

Klopp ultimately must add strength in numbers to be challenging for the top four and keep his on-field magician convinced that Anfield remains his forever home.