REDKNAPP HAILS LEIVA AFTER SPURS GAME

Former Premier League coach Jamie Redknapp has hailed the performance of Liverpool star Lucas Leiva during the clash with Tottenham Hotspur in the league.


The lowly ranked played in Coach Jurgen Klopp’s setup was impressive as he kept the duo of Dele Alli and Harry Kane at bay during the game.

Liverpool put up a spirited performance that saw them defeat spurs 2-0 at Anfield. Senegal international Sadio Mane, who returned from the African Cup of Nations, grabbed a brace to help the Reds keep their chance of finishing in the top four, in a highly competitive season, alive.

“Sadio Mane will win the plaudits for his goals against Tottenham but Lucas deserves a special mention for his performance at centre back. I expected him to be in for a torrid afternoon up against Harry Kane and Dele Alli but Lucas kept the in-form Tottenham pair at bay.

He defended like a warrior,” Redknapp told the Daily Mail.

Lucas was called upon to action in the absence of Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip and he impressed as Liverpool sealed off the win from the first half. His display shows he can still force a shirt under Klopp this season after being linked with numerous sides. The crucial victory helped Klopp’s men remain eleven points of log leaders Chelsea.

“Lucas may not be the biggest player but he is so wily, knowing when to nudge his opponent and put them off balance. The Brazilian has had to suffer plenty of questions about his ability since arriving at Anfield in 2007 but more often than not he is Mr Dependable when called upon – be it in defence or midfield,” the pundit added.
Liverpool are poised to face defending champions Leicester City next, even as the Foxes begin their fight to avoid relegation after their loss to Swansea in the last game.