Mid-fielder Joe Cole was sent off on his Premier League debut for Liverpool after a reckless challenge on Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny in the first half injury time in their opening match of the season at Anfield on Sunday.

The England midfielder, who joined Liverpool from Chelsea in the close-season, was shown an immediate red card by referee Martin Atkinson while Koscielny, making his debut after joining Arsenal from French club Lorient, left the pitch on a stretcher after a goalless first half.

Meanwhile, the Anfield officials may appeal against referee Martin Atkinson"s decision to dismiss the player.

A crucial opener for both the clubs ended in a 1-1 draw after a blunder by Liverpool goal-keeper Pepe Reina, letting off an unlikely goal to the visitors in the dying minutes of the match, just when it looked like Liverpool will run away with a winning start.

David Ngog had earlier given Liverpool the lead in the first minute of the second half.

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