Former Liverpool captain hails Federico Chiesa after ‘exceptional’ display vs Southampton

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Liverpool made it through to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, but only by the skin of their teeth.

The Reds continued their trend of leaving things late yet again, this time with Hugo Ekitike getting the winner against Championship side Southampton.

Arne Slot rang the changes for this one and many bit-part players got their chance to shine, with some doing just that.

One player who took their opportunity with both hands was Federico Chiesa, with the Italian providing the assists for the two goals.

He was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself and worked tirelessly for his side, with Jamie Redknapp left in awe with his performance.

Federico Chiesa shines for Liverpool

Chiesa is somewhat of a fan favourite at Anfield despite barely kicking a football for them, with the Italian’s song regularly heard ringing around the ground.

This was heard again during their game against Southampton, with it being sung this time due to the show he was putting on for the crowd.

He was one of Liverpool’s best players on the night and really proved why he should get a chance more often, with Redknapp believing that they would not have won the game without him.

“The one player for me who would have got the most out of it would be Federico Chiesa,” Redknapp told Sky Sports after the game.

“His energy, desire, it hasn’t gone well for him so far. He’s had a few moments and definitely lately he has shown signs that he is going back to that player we all knew he was.

READ MORE: Liverpool’s Carabao Cup player ratings vs Southampton as debutants shine but £30m star fails to impress

“But I think today he was just what they needed as without him, they would have been in a bit of a hole. He was exceptional.”

This was Chiesa’s first start of the season and just the third time in his Liverpool career that he has played the full 90 minutes, although he might get a few more chances after this performance.

Federico Chiesa is the perfect squad player

If there is one thing about Chiesa it is that when he gets a chance to play, he almost always impresses.

Whether that is with his end product or just sheer determination to win the ball back, it is no surprise that the fans absolutely adore him.

He often sees his minutes come off the bench, just like he did against Bournemouth, but now he has proven that he can make a difference from the start.

Of course, there is no telling whether Slot actually gives him more chances as they seem to have a very love-hate relationship, but based on the impact he had, he really should get what he deserves.