Petr Cech has lauded the 'big impact' Alisson has had on Liverpool after a spate of bizarre criticisms during the World Cup.
Alisson has been backed by Brazil manager Tite as the clear first choice, starting three of their four matches in Qatar - the other being a nothing game against Cameroon - ahead of Manchester City's Ederson. The Reds goalkeeper kept consecutive clean sheets against Serbia and Switzerland before conceding a consolation goal in the 4-1 win against South Korea - although it could have been more were it not for his string of fine saves.
Despite such fantastic form for club and country, the 30-year-old has come in for some bizarre criticism recently. Former Manchester United man Peter Schmeichel said he is worried about Alisson for Brazil because 'there is always a mistake' - a claim that Reds fans mocked on social media - while Ruud Gullit echoed the Dane's point, adding that he 'turns off, especially with the ball at his feet'.
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That's strange criticism for a keeper who is first-choice for the world's No.1 ranked side and tournament favourites, and who has conceded just one goal in Qatar thus far. And another former goalkeeper has since weighed in, this time on a more positive note, with ex- Chelsea and Arsenal man Cech praising the Brazilian's 'composure'.
“I think it comes from his natural personality as well," Cech said of Alisson. "When you see him, there is composure, there is calmness.
"I remember when Wojciech Sczczesny went to Rome and he was with him there, and he said that he had this Brazilian guy on the bench who was so good and that everyone would know it. It didn’t take long.
"It’s nice to see when things go right and he’s had a big impact at Liverpool, and he’s been brilliant at the World Cup so far."
Alisson was substituted off in strange circumstances during the win against South Korea on Monday, but is expected to return between the posts for their massive quarter-final clash with Croatia this afternoon.
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