Pundit Chris Sutton has claimed Liverpool midfielder Fabinho really struggles athletically nowadays.
Speaking on an episode of Monday Night Club for BBC 5 Live Sport, the former Blackburn and Chelsea forward suggested the 29-year-old looks like a shadow of his former self.
“He just looks shot to pieces,” said Sutton.
“He looks like he can’t run anymore.”
Just a month ago, manager Jurgen Klopp even admitted that the Brazilian was playing below his previous high standards, however he was starting to show signs of his best again.
Sutton says Fabinho seems past it
Out of everyone starting for Liverpool week-in week-out, Fabinho is up there with those who have shown the biggest drop-off in form this season.
Having arrived at Anfield in 2018 in a deal worth £39m, the Brazil international has gone on to make 208 appearances for the Reds – including 47 matches in the Champions League.
During Jurgen Klopp’s most successful years, the midfielder played a crucial part in the German’s side, adding a dominant presence in front of the defence.
However, over the past season or so, Fabinho has started to struggle athletically. He is an awful lot slower than he used to be, and he doesn’t win anywhere near as many challenges as he once did in the middle of the park.
Having played for Liverpool numerous times a week for years, the 29-year-old is probably burnt-out physically.
Whether he has the capability to reach his previous level is yet to be seen, but the club are likely to bring in competition for him this summer.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
