Micah Richards has claimed Fabinho's legs have 'started to go' with the midfielder having struggled for form so far this season.
Fabinho enjoyed a much better evening as Liverpool beat Napoli in their final Champions League group game on Tuesday, but this campaign has otherwise been a struggle for the Brazilian.
Former Manchester City defender Richards thinks it's 'quite strange' what has happened to Fabinho this season, but doesn't think having Harvey Elliott or Fabio Carvalho next to him in the midfield has helped given they are offensive players.
READ MORE: Liverpool analysis - Fabinho answer may have been found as Darwin Nunez situation changes
The Brazilian was taken off on the hour mark when Liverpool were beaten by Leeds last Saturday night at Anfield in what was their second loss in a row in the Premier League.
Richards was talking to BBC's Monday Night Club : "It's quite strange isn't it, we were talking about Fabinho about 18 months ago as being the best defensive midfielder in world football.
"He just looks like he can do all the same things apart from the legs. You know when you're a midfielder and your legs just start to go, and you can't get around the pitch as much as you would like, that's what it seems to be.
"I think it's difficult at times when he's played (Fabio) Carvalho and Harvey Elliott, two more offensive (players), when normally he's had a Henderson next to him or a Thiago next to him."
Fabinho has shone the most when having energetic players such as Jordan Henderson and Gini Wijnaldum next to him. Energy in the midfield may be the key to reviving his form.
READ NEXT
-
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia sparks Liverpool confusion as Napoli fans send X-rated message
-
Mohamed Salah verdict on 'best' Liverpool formation does not tell the full story
-
Jurgen Klopp agent confirms what Liverpool fans already knew as big target remains
-
'Right now' - Ally McCoist makes Wilfried Zaha Liverpool transfer point
-
Joe Gomez shares Trent Alexander-Arnold's behind-the-scenes reaction to Liverpool criticism
