Garth Crooks thinks Alisson Becker has improved on his distribution for Liverpool.
Crooks included Alisson in his Team of the Week for BBC Sport. However, when it comes to ball control, the pundit clearly thinks that Liverpool’s ‘keeper still has some way to go to catch his Manchester City counterpart and Brazilian colleague, Ederson.
“When it comes to one on ones, Alisson is one of the best goalkeepers in the game. However, his distribution is fast becoming just as good,” wrote Crooks.
“He’s not as good as Ederson when it comes to passing and controlling the ball with his feet in difficult situations but he’s quite brilliant when identifying which striker is available and where defences are vulnerable. His delivery for Mo Salah’s goal -Liverpool’s second – absolutely breathtaking.”
A big goal
Alisson’s assist for Salah on Saturday was indeed breathtaking.
To pick out such a pinpoint pass amidst the swirling conditions was absolutely superb. It came at a crucial time in the game and allowed Liverpool to turn the match around.
Of course, it owed to the touch and technique of the effervescent Salah. But Alisson’s ability to see the run his teammate was making and to execute an inch perfect pass was what made the goal so special.
It wasn’t the first time Liverpool’s big Brazilian had set up a goal for Salah, either.
Most Liverpool fans will remember the goalkeeper’s quick thinking punt which set Mo on the way to clinching a 2-0 win over Manchester United at Anfield in January 2020.
That goal led to cries of “now you’re gonna believe us, we’re gonna win the league” reverberating around Anfield.
The goal on Saturday could be of just as much significance. Having gone behind against Norwich City, it had the makings of a disastrous day in the title-race for Liverpool.
Instead, Salah’s goal put The Reds ahead and set them up for a 3-1 win. With Tottenham Hotspurs defeating Manchester City in Saturday’s late kick-off, Liverpool are very much back in the title picture.
Shot-stopper, goal-getter
Alisson’s assist was, remarkably, his third Premier League goal contribution for Liverpool.
Adding to his two assists, he also memorably scored a last minute winner against West Bromich Albion last season.
That goal turned out to be crucial in making sure Liverpool secured Champions League football.
It isn’t his job to provide goals for the team. But seeing as Alisson has already pretty much completed the process of becoming a world-class shot-stopper, he is now apparently turning his hand to affecting matters at the other end of the pitch.
What a player!
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