Andrew Robertson and Jordan Henderson lauded praise on Luis Diaz, after Liverpool’s 2-0 away victory against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The January signing from Porto bravely headed Jurgen Klopp’s side into a first half lead, beating Seagulls’ keeper Robert Sanchez to Joel Matip’s lofted pass and taking a huge whack in the process.
While Liverpool players protested that the Brighton goalkeeper should be sent off, Diaz had to receive treatment shortly after he put the Reds into the lead.
Fortunately, Diaz was able to continue and even finish the match in what was a breathless display from the Colombian.
And Liverpool captain Henderson specifically earmarked Diaz’s performance for recognition, further highlighting the instant impact he has had since his £37million move in the January transfer window.
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“Top class,” Henderson said when asked about Diaz’s influence at the Amex Stadium.
“Like we've said for weeks he's come in and done fantastically well, but yeah with the ball, the quality he possesses, without the ball the workrate as well, winning the ball back. Another big performance from him.”
Mohamed Salah slotted home Liverpool’s 200 th Premier League goal and his 20 th of the campaign to put the contest beyond Graham Potter’s side.
However, Diaz’s impact was the talking point of the contest, after his relentless tormenting of the Brighton defence.
“Since he’s come in, he’s been special and hit the ground running,” Robertson said when asked about Diaz’s performances since his arrival.
“Today, he was unplayable at times, driving at players, people were scared of him and he’s got an end product.
“It’s never easy coming in in January, sometimes it’s hard to find your feet but he’s done it really quickly and long may that continue.”
Diaz’s adaptation into the Premier League has been exceptionally impressive, particularly as he is yet to ascertain a firm grasp of English.
He has already contributed two Premier League goals in his first five domestic matches for the Reds, despite only arriving at the end of January.
And Robertson believes more will come when he fully integrates into this Liverpool side.
“I just try to use our Spanish speaking players as much as I can and build that up,” Robertson added when asked about Diaz’s English speaking skills.
“I think he’s learning, where I’m going to be, where I want the ball and where I’ll put the ball in the box.
“We’ve got a good relationship already, linking up really well and it’ll only get better the more he settles in and learns the language, and gets used to the team even more.”
Liverpool’s victory on the South Coast means they are now only three points away from table-topping Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola’s side travel to Selhurst Park to face a very dangerous Crystal Palace side.
Patrick Vieira’s side have won two of their last three Premier League matches and have the added advantage of previously beating the Citizens 2-0 in the away fixture.
Should the Eagles stun the reigning champions again, Liverpool would only need to win their game in hand to leapfrog Guardiola’s side, thanks to a superior goal difference.
