Liverpool's 2-2 draw at Newcastle on Saturday provided some interesting tactical talking points, most notably the use of three at the back as well as the lack of control in midfield.
Brendan Rodgers continued to use a 3-4-1-2 system, with Jordan Henderson alongsideSteven Gerrard in Lucas Leiva's absence.
However, prior to the dismissal of Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa five minutes before half-time, Rodgers' side struggled to control the game.
The two wing-backs of Glen Johnson and Aly Cissokho struggled to perform their roles in a physically demanding position, both returning from injury. While Victor Moses continued to look ineffective in the "No. 10" role behind Luis Suarez and DanielSturridge.
Indeed, it was only once Luis Alberto Romero was introduced with half an hour remaining that Liverpool began to control the game. The Spaniard's introduction also meant a change in formation, with a somewhat lopsided 4-2-3-1 becoming the shape of the team as Moses went wide and Johnson pushed forward on the right side.
Admittedly, Alberto's introduction coincided with the opposition becoming tired from playing with 10 men, but he certainly added an element of control in the area between the midfield and attack.
He maintained possession, controlled the flow and linked play effectively, creating numerous chances in the process.
The return of Philippe Coutinho, possibly for Saturday's visit of West Brom, will provide the perfect player for this position, but in his absence perhaps Alberto should have been given an opportunity there rather than Moses—who clearly suits a wider role.