Sterling stole the show, but Hendo was the Lone Ranger

I could really care less about international football at the moment.  With Gerrard no longer carrying England, it's lost a lot of it's luster, and let's face it, Norway isn't exactly a glamorous opponent. Sterling did make it quite an exhibition though.  Our diminutive winger/attacking midfielder/second forward had 67 touches in which he completed 43 0f 50 passes, 2 take-ons, 4 fouls won, 2 tackles, and a ridiculous 7 chances created, 3 more than his entire fellow countrymen combined. He also won the pen that unfortunately was the match's only goal.

Some of that was due to Sturridge's inability to get a decent shot off.  I don't want to say he's in a slump, but... he's in a slump.  It should be flattering to him that three goalless matches, one which matters not, is worrisome.  Villa come to town next, so he should get a few good shots in.  His 12 losses of possession only added to a forgettable night.

Henderson put in a valiant effort as well.  He lead the side with a 117 touches, 110 pass attempts, and 101 completions, giving him a pass completion percentage rate of 91.8%.  He was so awesome, his heat map looked the Lone Ranger:

I guess that makes Wayne Rooney, 'Tonto'. 

Today's Banter: Riise injured, Momo to miss Porto match as well, Redknapp LFC's new adviser, & more

- John Arne Riise picked up a groin injury in Norway's draw with Greece last Wednesday and will not be fit for tomorrow's match at Porto. Fabio Aurelio will be available though, just in the nick of time.

- No reason was given, but Momo won't be making the trip either and surprise, surprise, Harry Kewell is still nursing a groin pull.

- Rafa has revealed that his former number two, Pako Ayesteran, is contractually prevented from joining another English club. A number of Spanish clubs are rumored to be interested in retaining his services when he returns from 'gardening leave.'

- Harry Redknapp couldn't help taking a swipe at Rafa for not playing his best eleven against his Portsmouth side. Of course, that is basically saying his own players are second rate and couldn't beat a Liverpool B side, but that would actually take a brain to realize.

- Finally, with goals from Ryan Crowther and David Amoo, the U18s cruised to their second straight victory when they defeated Sheffield Wednesday, 2-0, on Saturday. Unfortunately, Gary MacKay Steven had to come off because of a hamstring injury.

John Arne Riise's goal versus Greece (video)

Absolute stunner! The only goal which I would put above it on the day is McFadden's, but only because of the significance of it.