Opinion

BBC Sport pundit blown away by ‘unbelievable’ 31-year-old Liverpool player vs Crystal Palace

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Garth Crooks has lauded Alisson Becker after the Liverpool star’s performance this weekend against Crystal Palace.

The 31-year-old goalkeeper returned between the sticks as Alisson put on an incredible display for the Reds, who left it late to beat Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park to go top of the Premier League.

And writing for BBC Sport, Crooks was full of praise for Alisson, who pulled off an incredible late save from Joachim Andersen to secure the three points for Liverpool in south London.

Manchester City v Liverpool FC - Premier League
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

Crooks said on Alisson’s performance against Crystal Palace: “Liverpool are currently sitting pretty one point clear at the top of the table and they owe it all to Alisson.

His performance at Selhurst Park on his return from injury was quite outstanding. His save from Jefferson Lerma, which he managed to push on to the post in the first half, was amazing.

“But the Brazil goalkeeper saved the best for last with an unbelievable stop when he got his hands to a Joachim Andersen header that looked a certain goal.”

Alisson Becker showed vs Crystal Palace why he’s Liverpool’s no. 1

Crystal Palace v Liverpool FC - Premier League
Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Caoimhin Kelleher arguably had a chance at starting on Saturday after the Republic of Ireland international’s performance against Sheffield United midweek.

Yet with Alisson back and fully fit, the Brazilian was always going to be back between the sticks for the Reds, and Jurgen Klopp’s decision paid off big time.

The 31-year-old was exceptional on the day and was flawless despite conceding a penalty that few goalkeepers in the world would have saved.

And heading into 2024, Alisson will be key for Liverpool if the Reds are to challenge for the Premier League title, with the Anfield side now firmly in the race.