Liverpool suffered their first defeat of the season as they were knocked out of the Carabao Cup at the hands of Chelsea.

Both Jurgen Klopp and Maurizio Sarri made a host of changes but still fielded a number of first-team players for the much-anticipated clash. The Reds created the better chances and deservedly took the lead through Daniel Sturridge in the second half. However, the Blues hit back minutes later with Emerson bundling the ball home from an Eden Hazard free-kick. It was the Belgian who took centre stage to steal the show with an excellent solo effort to book Chelsea’s place in the next round.

Indeed, just days later, in a pulsating match at Stamford Bridge, the spoils were shared during the league meeting between the two.

While the result will sting, it allowed Klopp to fully assess his back up options ahead of the January transfer window. One man who should be shown the exit door is left-back Alberto Moreno. The Spaniard has never impressed the Anfield faithful and looked dreadful yet again, failing to deal with Victor Moses for the majority of the game.

To replace him, Liverpool should make a move for Real Madrid outcast – Theo Hernandez. Valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt, the Frenchman was signed from rivals Atletico Madrid back in 2017 but failed to displace Marcelo in the starting eleven at the Bernabeu. He was loaned to Real Sociedad for the current campaign and has made five appearances thus far, providing one assist.

Hernandez possesses blistering pace but also a physical presence which helps him dominate wingers. The 21-year-old is also known for his excellent crossing ability which makes him ideal back-up to Andrew Robertson in the Liverpool first-team. Working with Klopp and the Scotland captain would do wonders for his long-term development.

Bringing the Frenchman to Anfield could prove to be a masterstroke and would help fans quickly forget about Moreno’s dismal performances.

Liverpool fans, thoughts?