Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has claimed goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absolutely pivotal in ensuring the win and gaining three points against Newcastle United yesterday.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, the German lauded his men for their 2-0 victory over a difficult Magpies side.
He then went on to express just how important the 30-year-old shot stopper was to securing the result at St James’ Park.
“He’s the goalie he is and we love having him,” said Klopp.
“He had a very helpful performance today, absolutely.”
Anfield hero Jamie Carragher subsequently claimed the Brazilian was Liverpool’s player of the match during his commentary for Sky Sports.
“I’ve said from the early part of first half – the Liverpool goalkeeper has been the best player. He’s come to the rescue again,” Carragher said.
“He’s one of the world’s best, no doubt, they’ve needed him to be that today. No way Liverpool get three points [without him] if Newcastle had ten men or eleven men.”
Alisson POTM for Liverpool vs Newcastle
This has become a regular occurrence at Liverpool this season.
The Reds have looked woeful at times this year, particularly at the back – as the defence have looked shaky for the vast majority of the campaign.
However, one saving grace has been Alisson. He is probably the only player who can honestly say they’ve played well this season (bar Stefan Bajcetic, but he’s only recently come into the XI).
The Merseyside outfit are currently eighth in the Premier League table, having lost just under a third of their matches.
With a plus-ten goal-difference, on paper, Klopp’s side haven’t looked horrendous. Instead, they look almost identical to Brighton – who are being lavished for their form this season.
However, if it wasn’t for Alisson in goal, Liverpool would not be anywhere near the Seagulls in the table.
The 30-year-old has saved the Reds time and time again, and yesterday’s match was no exception.
Without the no.1, who knows where Liverpool would be. Therefore, this win can largely be attributed to the Brazilian, who has been exceptional at Anfield this season.