A former Premier League cult hero was sent off in an Under-21s game this weekend.

Player coach Jay Spearing, who played 30 times for the Reds' senior team from 2008 to 2013, now turns out for Liverpool's Under-21 side.

He was given his marching orders on Sunday against Reading in a Premier League 2 clash.

Spearing was sent off in the 89th minute for what appeared to be a handball on the line.

However, young goalkeeper Fabian Mrozek, who is only 20, spared Spearing's blushes by saving the spot kick.

Spearing is a player-coach within the Reds' academy, given he is now 35.