Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admits the ball playing skills of goalkeeper Alisson Becker were a ‘little bit of a surprise’ after the Brazilian’s arrival at Anfield last summer.
The Reds paid Roma a then world-record £65m to secure the 26-year-old and he has gone on to form part of a defence that has conceded just eight league goals so far this season.
The goalkeeper leads the Premier League for clean sheets with 12, but Klopp admits it is Alisson’s ability with the ball at his feet which has taken the German most by surprise.
“Well, maybe that Ali is such a good football player.’’ Klopp told ESPN Brazil.
“It was always very clear that he was a very influential player with the ball, but that he’s this good I didn’t see it, honestly — maybe because of a different style Roma played.
“That was a little bit of a surprise, and a very nice surprise.”