Analysis: No escape after wretched display by champions

Liverpool have lived on the edge all season, as late goals have rescued victories, but there was no escape at Selhurst Park and the reigning champions did not deserve one either.

It briefly looked like another late strike, this time from Federico Chiesa, would earn a fortunate point, but their defence failed to clear a long throw and Eddie Nketiah pounced for his first goal since May.

Liverpool have been leaking goals all season, but have been able to dig themselves out of trouble at the other end.

After Crystal Palace tore their backline apart in the first 45 minutes, the Reds stepped up a gear in the second half, presumably with some angry words from Arne Slot ringing in their ears.

But they were far from fluent in what must rank as one of the worst displays since the Dutch head coach succeeded Jurgen Klopp.

British record signing Alexander Isak looked rusty, missing a glorious chance in the second half before being withdrawn to predictable chants of "what a waste of money" from home supporters.

Florian Wirtz, who also should have done better when shooting straight at goalkeeper Dean Henderson from six yards out, is also still struggling to make an impact since his big-money arrival.

In some ways, this was a Liverpool defeat that was coming, having lived so dangerously this season, but it will be no less disappointing for Slot in the manner of the outcome.