Former Premier League striker Garth Crooks has been lauding two key Liverpool stars following the 3-0 victory over Leeds United.
The Reds were sublime at Elland Road before a serious ankle dislocation to Harvey Elliott marred an otherwise perfect afternoon.
Goals from Mohamed Salah, Fabinho and a late strike from Sadio Mane wrapped up all three points in Yorkshire, but it was a non-goalscoring duo that caught the eye of one particular pundit.
Writing in the BBC Team of the Week, Crooks was full of praise for Virgil van Dijk and Thiago.
Van Dijk was part of another clean sheet against Leeds but looks menacing in the opposition penalty area once again. He’s been outstanding for Liverpool since his return. With Van Dijk in the team, anything is possible for Liverpool again. I haven’t been terribly convinced by Thiago since his arrival from Bayern Munich. He came to Anfield with a massive reputation but he has found the Premier League a different proposition to the Bundesliga. However, he has shown signs of his class and controlled the midfield against Leeds at Elland Road. Personally I like the energy and personality of Jordan Henderson as opposed to the cool, calm and composed exterior of Thiago. But there is no doubt about it – the boy can play.
The Spanish midfielder’s performance was also broken down in a Tweet as the 30-year-old showed his class.
Twitter: Thiago Alcantara vs. Leeds
89% Pass accuracy
4/4 Accurate long passes
2 Chances created
1 Assist
10/11 Duels won
https://t.co/8wzQt9tHht (@Tactical_Times)
READ LIVERPOOL VERDICT
In many ways, all highly surprising, both stars have got points to prove this season.
Van Dijk will be desperate to show his best form following a 10-month absence with a cruciate knee ligament injury.
Meanwhile, Thiago is yet to show his true world-class talent since arriving on Merseyside last summer from Bayern Munich and will hope this performance is one of many.
