Premier League record goalscorer Alan Shearer has hailed Liverpool defender Nat Phillips after his starring role in an all-important 3-0 victory over Burnley.
Despite the comfortable scoreline, the Reds needed to battle for another hard-earned three points in the race for a top-four finish at Turf Moor.
Roberto Firmino opened the scoring before Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain rounded off the night’s work late on with a powerful finish after coming off the bench.
But it was the man who made it 2-0 that received a majority of the plaudits, as the Bolton-born 24-year-old, Phillips, inspired a crucial clear sheet.
Speaking on BBC Match of the Day, Shearer hailed the no-nonsense central defender.
It was a bit of a tricky start for Nat Phillips, but after that, once he settled down, he was the best player on the park. He was commanding, did everything he had to do very well.
Having started the season seemingly way down the Anfield pecking order, injuries have meant the man who spent last season in the German second tier has made 19 appearances in all competitions for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
None of those aforementioned outings were more impressive than last night in east Lancashire – Phillips earned a superb rating of 8.9 comprising of nine clearances, two blocked shots, three tackles and one goalline clearance (Sofascore).
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All credit must go to the £4.5million valued defender for his inspired performances this season.
Whilst much of his defensive work could be classed as ‘no nonsense’ – that is exactly what the doctor ordered against a physical Burnley side.
Moreover, the man now dubbed the ‘Bolton Baresi’ has been a driving force behind the recent run of form that could see Liverpool back in the Champions League next season.
