Like many Liverpool fans, we’d like to see Naby Keita in the side against Norwich on Premier League opening night next Friday.
The Guinean was very impressive when he came on today, adding creativity and dynamism to our midfield.
Keita makes darting forward runs, plays clever one-twos and is seemingly enjoying the physical side of the game a little more than was evidenced last season – perhaps thanks to the fact he’s clearly bulked up in the gym.
He had a great chance to nick a winner, but sadly his side-footed effort from the edge of the area was too close to Claudio Bravo.
Gini Wijnaldum was poor today and we’d like to see Keita start in the Dutchman’s role, just to the left of Fabinho – who anchors our midfield with Jordan Henderson on the other side.
Fans on Twitter largely shared this opinion following out shootout defeat to Manchester City, in which we were the much better side.
Naby Keita in the two friendlies he's played has looked like the player we thought we got last summer. Has had a year to settle in, looks very fit and sharp (despite injury), and looks hungry and confident. 2nd season often important for so many signings after year to adapt to PL
— Paul Tomkins (@paul_tomkins) August 4, 2019
Thought we were brilliant second half today #LFC gave team a template in how to play against them #MCFC also thought #Keita was very encouraging when he came on & was very positive. Roll on Friday #PremierLeague #Footyisback
— Gav ✋🏼👍🏼 (@gavcraik) August 4, 2019
Naby Keita better start on Friday, and in every game moving forward. I think the time has come for Klopp to fully integrate him into the team.
— Road to Istanbul 🏆 (@dboetan7i) August 4, 2019
Keïta has to start on Friday night, and there’s absolutely no question in that whatsoever. He seemed so sharp today.
— The Jerry James Show (@jerryjamesshow) August 4, 2019
Keita is gonna be the player with low passing percentages but also our most key midfielder in terms of creating chances
— John O'Sullivan (@NotoriousJOS) August 4, 2019
Keita has to start ahead of Gini this season offers far more
— John O Sullivan (@Corballyred) August 4, 2019
Keita running the game when he comes on
— sabah (@Sabah07) August 4, 2019