The Scousers prevailed 2-0 against the Toffees at Anfield as the Merseyside was painted Red. Jamie Carragher has acknowledged that Stefan Bajcetic, the young Liverpool midfielder, utterly disproved him yesterday against Everton.
Bajcetic made his sixth consecutive start in the midfield for Liverpool as they prepared for a key Merseyside Derby. It was a tough ask for the 18-year-old to be tasked with neutralizing an Everton midfield that appeared to be formidable.
But, like he has done the whole season, Bajcetic forcefully dispelled such uncertainties. During his analysis for Sky Sports, Carragher couldn’t help but be amazed by the player’s poise on the field and strength in the tackle.
What Jamie Carragher said
“I have to be honest before the game I wanted Henderson and Fabinho back in the team and I wasn’t sure about the young lad coping with the physicality. He’s been absolutely fantastic in this first half that young lad.”
When the team news began to spread this evening, there may have been a few raised eyebrows from fans. In addition to sticking with the center backs that played so poorly against Wolves, Jurgen Klopp also started Fabinho and Bajcetic in the middle of the field.
The brilliance of Bajcetic against Everton
Fabinho may not have belonged in the team, only based on his performance thus far. The 29-year-old is the seasoned mind that you occasionally need for these physical games, so that wasn’t a surprise. He typically kicks off the major matches.
It was a bit of a shock to see both, the Brazilian and Bajcetic there, though. Both have been used as “No. 6s” at Liverpool virtually exclusively. Whatever Klopp was thinking, Liverpool benefited from it for sure. Moreover, yesterday, the young Spaniard was outstanding.
No matter how many times you watch Bajcetic play, he never ceases to positively amaze you. He performed admirably once more after being thrown into a crucial game with Liverpool in need of a victory. Everything was clear and tidy, and there was great enthusiasm. Carragher saw one particular instance as well.
Bajcetic hurried to be the first one to a loose ball in midfield that was floating about. With his attention back on goal, the youngster skillfully flicked a backheel through the legs of the advancing Everton defender. Liverpool launched yet another counterattack from what seemed to be an impossible position as a result.
The 45-year-old said, “Brilliant young man, brilliant son!” He wasn’t the only one who was likely impressed. It seems like this young man is always growing better. His rise will have cost millions by the time summer rolls around. Outstandingly deserving of Man of the Match.
