AcademyBarry Lewtas on Hertha BSC, Calvin Ramsay and loan departures

Calvin Ramsay and Mateusz Musialowski were on target for Liverpool but the German side edged a gripping contest at the Academy.

The game concluded the Reds’ group-stage campaign, with Lewtas’ side now relying on other results to go in their favour if they are to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.

After falling 2-0 down against Hertha, full-back Ramsay pulled one back with a smart finish before half-time. The visitors struck again early in the second period and, while Musialowski’s fine 69th-minute solo effort reduced the deficit, Liverpool could not find a leveller.

“Although we dominated parts of the game, there were a few things that didn't quite click,” Lewtas told Liverpoolfc.com.

“We had a lot of the ball and we created a lot, but I felt individually and collectively we weren't where we've been.

“Without a shadow of doubt, we probably did enough to get something out of the game but, if you concede three goals, you get what you deserve. We needed to do the basics better.

“It puts us in an awkward position in the group. That's why we are so disappointed. We've done ever so well in this competition and we know, on our day, we're a real match for anyone.”

Lewtas highlighted an electric display from substitute Harvey Blair as a key positive from Liverpool’s performance.

Blair replaced Oakley Cannonier after 39 minutes of the game after his fellow attacker was forced off with a knock.

“Harvey has had a few struggles with injury, so it's nice to see him feeling his way back in,” Lewtas added.

“He is working his way back. He was excellent against Wolves at the weekend [a 1-0 Premier League 2 win]. He was really direct on the right-hand side, he played really well, created chances, and I thought he did the same again against Hertha. That's a real positive for us but more of a positive for Harvey.

“It was a shame for Oakley, of course, especially after scoring the winner at Wolves. I thought he started brightly, actually. For him to go off was disappointing.”

Lewtas also saluted goalscorer Ramsay’s influence. He believes the Scot has the ability to regularly provide decisive final-third contributions.

“It's always nice for Calvin to get some minutes and get a run-out,” he said.

“It was a good night for him, to weigh in with a goal. He's done that a few times now and that's maybe something he's got in his locker.”

Transfer deadline day saw Liverpool U21 left-back Luke Chambers join Scottish Premiership outfit Kilmarnock on loan for the remainder of the season

Centre-back Jarell Quansah also completed a temporary move in the January window – he will spend the rest of 2022-23 with League One club Bristol Rovers.

“They've played really well for us and it's the right opportunity for them to sample first-team football,” Lewtas explained.

“They are two players who are in a really good place at the moment. We look forward to seeing how they do. I'm sure they'll do very well and represent themselves and the club well.”