Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised midfielder Alexis Mac Allister as he continues to perform beyond expectations this season

Jurgen Klopp heaped praise on Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister for performing beyond the expectations for the team this season. Mac Allister has played a pivotal role for the Reds this season as they continue to push for multiple trophies.

Liverpool beat Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1 at Anfield in an important Premier League clash to continue their title chase. Mac Allister dominated the midfield, continuously finding spaces to provide support and deliver key passes and through balls.

He also covered a lot of ground to fulfil his defensive duties alongside teammate Wataru Endo throughout the game. The Argentinian notched up an assist for Mohamed Salah’s winner, delivering a spectacular through ball for the Egyptian.  

Klopp told reporters (h/t Liverpoolfc.com) that Mac Allister has played beyond his expectations, securing his starting role in the team. He said:

“Alexis is exactly the player I hoped he would be; super-influential, super-smart, great guy. [He] loves playing for Liverpool as well, which is really important. He’s a rhythm-giver, he’s a difference-maker, [he] can control moments of the game. [He is] always there, always involved, nothing is too much for him, he’s really a top, top, top player. But we had that sense when we signed him and he fulfilled all our expectations and more.”

Liverpool signed Mac Allister from Brighton during the summer after activating his release clause and securing him immediately. Many fans and pundits have considered the 25-year-old as the signing of the season for his impact at the club.

The World Cup winner can play as a number eight or a number ten. However, he showed his diversity and professionalism when Klopp deployed him as a number six in many games this season.

Klopp used Mac Allister in a single-pivot number six until Endo became accustomed to the pace of the Premier League. Currently, both midfielders are the primary double-pivot pairing in the midfield and they have formed a formidable partnership.

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Mac Allister’s performances have endeared him with the Liverpool fans immediately as he continues to be a consistent first-team player. The Argentina international has scored five goals and provided seven assists from 35 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.