Xherdan Shaqiri proved against Everton that he’s a real asset for Liverpool – if he gets time.
The Swiss started in the Premier League for first time since January 30th and for the first time in any competition since the 4-0 win over Barcelona.
He’s the £13m forgotten man at Anfield. The one player in the squad you never expect anything of.
Not that it’s any fault of Shaqiri’s. He simply doesn’t get the time to show what he can do. Shaqiri played just 25 minutes this season before the Merseyside derby – he hasn’t had a chance.
Now, we thought he’d get that chance against Brighton. Jurgen Klopp saw things differently, however, and instead rotated against Everton. Shaqiri stepped in for Mohamed Salah and finally got a chance to show what he can do.
And it’s safe to say he grabbed that opportunity and played his way into contention.
Shaqiri was a menace to Everton, keeping it brilliantly and pulling off some wonderful flicks. He showed fantastic instinct, too, as he timed a run to perfection to collect Sadio Mane’s pass and fire in Liverpool’s second.
It’s all the more remarkable that this should be Shaqiri at his worst. There’s absolutely no way he’s full fit or up to speed – there’s more to come.
And yet he still looked nigh-on flawless as he slotted into the team. Shaqiri, if he continues to get more time, can be a real asset to Liverpool this season.
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