Chris Waugh has claimed that Matt Targett was given a 'torrid time' by Luis Diaz as Newcastle United lost 1-0 at home to Liverpool in the Premier League.

The Lowdown: Not to be

It was just not to be for Eddie Howe and his team as Jurgen Klopp's side took another big leap towards securing the top-flight title at St. James' Park.

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Naby Keita rounded goalkeeper Martin Dubravka in the first half after James Milner appeared to have fouled Fabian Schar, but replays showed that he in fact won the ball.

The Latest: Waugh reacts

Taking to Twitter, The Athletic journalist Waugh claimed that Targett was given a 'torrid time' in particular by Diaz.

The Reds winger was a thorn in his side all game, winning eight of his duels in total, while he also recorded five successful dribbles, four shots on goal and two key passes (SofaScore).

The Verdict: Not his best

It was certainly one of those afternoons for Targett, who was not at his best despite an excellent start to life on Tyneside.

The Aston Villa loanee lost out on four of his duels, was dribbled past twice, and failed to record any dribbles, key passes or crosses, giving the ball away 12 times in total (SofaScore).

However, he will not be coming up against players of the quality of Diaz every week, and so should just put this performance behind him and concentrate on the next game.

In other news, find out what big NUFC injury update has now emerged here!