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Each time, as the players-turned-pundits gave their views on Trent Alexander-Arnold's potential move to Real Madrid, Liverpool supporters were told how they should be reacting to the developments.

"I think the fans should applaud him [and] appreciate what he's given to Liverpool," suggested Merson before Dawson followed up with: "I think Liverpool fans should be very happy for him.

You should be saying: 'You know what, I'd love him to stay but well done (claps).' You should be clapping him off and saying we'll give you a hero's welcome when you return."

There are many shades of grey to this particular Liverpool subplot and an ocean's depth of nuance to a situation that leaves a lifelong Reds supporter and vice-captain of one of the finest squads in decades edging ever nearer to a move to Real Madrid as a free agent.

However Liverpool supporters feel about that prospect unfolding later this year is entirely their prerogative.

But if, as many expect, the West Derby-born defender does walk away at the end of his contract, there will be many views that chime with one another among the club's sprawling, worldwide fanbase and there will be some that will clang in contrast.

However fans feel, though, won't be dictated by the demands of the likes of Merson, Dawson and more specifically Ferdinand, whose calls for Reds fans to adopt the stance of proud parents at the sight of Alexander-Arnold joining the Galacticos of Madrid are so out of tune with how many feel on Merseyside.

Liverpool fans, often held up as some of the most knowledgeable around, need no advice on how to think from the likes of Merson, Dawson and certainly not Ferdinand, whose United allegiances see him treated with the same sort of suspicion reserved for Gary Neville from Reds followers