2 months ago
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Jamie Redknapp has claimed Federico Chiesa will be the Liverpool player who benefits most from the midweek Carabao Cup win over Southampton.
He was one of 11 changes to the line-up at Anfield, with the rotated side lacking fluidity at times. Chiesa was the standout performer in the 2-1 victory and set up both goals for Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike.
He created four chances, had four shots himself, produced more touches in the opposition area than any other player, while Cheisa’s work rate out of possession was impressive. He earned praise from Arne Slot after the game, and Redknapp also echoed the head coach’s platitudes.
“The one player for me who would have got the most out of it would be Federico Chiesa,” the ex-Liverpool midfielder told Sky Sports after the game.
“I thought he was fabulous today; his energy, desire, it hasn’t gone well for him so far. He’s had a few moments and definitely lately you’ve seen signs that he is going back to that player we all knew he could be.
“But I think today he was just what they needed, as without him, they would have been in a bit of a hole. The two assists were exceptional.”
While Redknapp praised Chiesa, he was less complimentary of Ekitike. The striker soured his winning goal by removing his shirt and holding it aloft towards the crowd, resulting in second booking.
Slot labelled the red card as “needless” and “stupid”, and Redknapp feels Ekitike’s moment of madness could allow Isak to move above him in the Liverpool pecking order.
“This is just pure brain fog,” said the 52-year-old. “He’s been amazing since he came in, scoring goals, started so well. I feel sorry for him because that’s cost him now, he’s not going to play against Crystal Palace.
“Why he’s taken his shirt off to show the crowd as well, I don’t know. Is there a message, is he trying to say something? He doesn’t need to – we all know his name, he’s different class. He’s been doing so well at the club.
“Only he knows why he’s taken off his shirt. He knows the rules; he’s played the same rules all around the world. He’d been booked and maybe he’s just forgotten in the emotion of what has happened.
“But it’s come at a price. Football is really tough in terms of you only need to be out for one game.
“If Alexander Isak comes in and scores, he might find himself on the bench again, whereas now, the way that he has been playing, he has made himself the no.9.”
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