Mike Penders: Did the youngster prove his worth? Sent the wrong way for the spot‑kick, he could barely stop the finish, yet he denied Isador to keep the score 1-0. 6
Marco Palestra: After battling injuries and still finding his rhythm, the Italian sparked the attack and nearly set up a goal with a half‑time cross. 6
Wesley Fofana: Delivered a steadier display than his wobble against Manchester United last week. 6
Levi Colwill: Struggled to contain Brian Brobbey, who slipped past him for a chance and then earned a penalty that many felt was harsh. In my view, Colwill’s hesitation cost the team, and he left the field at half‑time after a booking. 4
Pep Chavarria: Stopped a near‑certain goal early on and later sent in a dangerous cross that went unanswered. 6
Moises Caicedo: Largely invisible in midfield before being shuffled into a makeshift centre‑back role in the second half. 5
Romeo Lavia: Took on a deep‑lying playmaker role, but his long‑range effort failed to trouble the keeper. 6
Jordan Henderson: Returned to the starting XI and offered a decent, if unremarkable, performance against his former side. 5
Cole Palmer: Showcased a brilliant first touch and drove into the box, earning a potential penalty that was ruled out for occurring outside the area. 6
Morgan Rogers: Missed a good header midway through the first half and spent most of the game on the fringe. 5
Pedro Neto: Failed to make an impact up front and was substituted in the 62nd minute. 5
Subs:
Estevao Willian (on 46, Colwill): The Brazilian added threat after entering the match. 6
Danny Welbeck (on 62, Neto): Brought extra presence in the box, highlighted by a glancing header that drifted wide soon after coming on. 6
Malo Gusto (on 62, Palestra): Kept a low profile in his 100th Premier League appearance. 6
Geovany Quenda (on 79, Chavarria)
Emegha (on 87, Henderson)
Subs not used: Sharman-Lowe, Anselmino, Nicoll-Jazuli, Barco