Phil Smith's Sunderland player ratings after 4-2 defeat to Liverpool in Nashville | OneFootball

Sunderland AFC lost 4-2 to Liverpool in Nashville on Saturday night, though Régis Le Bris could still take positives. Sunderland Echo notes there were encouraging signs for the head coach. Timur Tutierov’s goal was one of them.

Le Bris again used 22 players across the two halves. A more experienced XI drew the first half 1-1. Liverpool then took control against a youthful Sunderland side to finish 4-2 winners.

Goalkeeper Melker Ellborg had little chance with either finish and handled the press in possession, making a smart save before going off midway through the second half. He earned 6.

At right-back, Nordi Mukiele made some positive runs without creating chances and was sound defensively. He received 6.

Dan Ballard looked strong and assured on his return. Booked for a challenge on Rio Ngumoha, he stepped out well with the ball and managed his defensive duties cleanly. He was marked 7.

Luke O’Nien was steady in possession and had little to do at the back, making one excellent block late in the half. He scored 6.

Source: Sunderland Echo