Liverpool fans had good reason to keep a watchful eye on Friday’s friendly between the USA and Brazil.
A yearning to see summer signing Fabinho in action was partially fulfilled as the former Monaco man started at right-back for Tite’s side.
It wasn’t quite the conventional insight into his midfield value, but by all means a timely reminder of the defensive power Liverpool have acquired.
The Brazilian strolled to a dominant display, showcasing an attentiveness to his positioning and serving as a reliable distributor on the ball.
His authority at full-back was the latest clue of the orthodox defensive stability he promises to add as a no.6, and the attacking freedom he will grant his midfield teammates at Liverpool. It also teased valuable partnerships with both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson in regards to his promise of cover for their marauding runs.
His ability to drive forward with the ball was also demonstrated late in the first half when he won a penalty after being tripped by Wil Trapp. Neymar subsequently converted from the spot to add to Roberto Firmino’s 11th minute opener.
Fabinho is still in wait of his competitive Liverpool debut, with Jurgen Klopp keen to ease him in as he adapts to life in England.
Nonetheless, Friday’s display will have eased doubts over his form and fitness as well as hinting that a start for his club may not be too far away.
Here’s what fans had to say about his performance…
Fabinho has been monstrous defensively. Dominant in 1v1 situations. Could have certainly been of good use in the Belgium game.
— Seleção Brasileira (@BrazilStat) September 8, 2018
Watching Fabinho performing so well for Brazil just wants me to see him start the next game for us, whether it’s DM or RB. Cannot wait for his debut.
— Samue (@VintageSalah) September 8, 2018
Fabinho is playing brilliant at RB, considering the fact that he’s not even a RB 😭 why was fagner in the wc squad ahead of him pls?? 😂
— ً (@bubbIxs) September 8, 2018
Having a specialist footballer in a position as crucial as the defensive-midfielder role is instrumental to every other players role – whether that be expressing themselves going forward, or knowing/trusting their instinctive movements at the back.
Fabinho is a specialist.
— Ben Webb (@BenWebbLFC) September 8, 2018
Fabinho in action last night for Brazil 🇧🇷
He played the full 90 mins at RB, won a penalty and was solid all game 🔥#LFC pic.twitter.com/CjZcaSeJGF
— Anything Liverpool (@AnythingLFC_) September 8, 2018
Fabinho in last nights friendly against USA. Won a penalty and looked solid defensively at RB – can see him starting for Liverpool very soon. pic.twitter.com/IjmFRItNST
— Anfield Express (@AnfieldExpress) September 8, 2018
Fabinho is ready but I don't think the rest of the Premier League are…
— George (@George___Owen) September 8, 2018
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