Liverpool cult hero Jose Enrique praised Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for his role in the Reds’ second goal against Manchester City on Thursday night.
Jurgen Klopp’s charges headed to the Etihad Stadium for a huge Carabao Cup last-16 tie in their first competitive match after the World Cup.
The hosts took the lead in the 10th minute when Erling Haaland prodded home from Kevin De Bruyne’s delivery.
iverpool were level nine minutes later, James Milner squaring for Fabio Carvalho to slot into the far corner.
Nothing separated the two teams at half-time, despite serving up plenty of end-to-end football.
But shortly after the restart, City took the lead again.
Riyad Mahrez curled home a superb effort from Rodri’s equally great delivery.
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Liverpool had to wait just a minute before drawing level for the second time in the game.
Oxlade-Chamberlain released Nunez to dart down the left flank and set up Salah for a composed finish.
‘The best thing’
Enrique, commentating on BBC Radio 5 Live, loved what he saw from the half-time substitute.
“The pace from Darwin Nunez was unbelievable,” began the Spaniard (22/12/22, 21:08).
“The finish is the easiest thing, but the best thing is the pass from Oxlade-Chamberlain. Incredible.”
Sadly, Liverpool fell behind a third time, and they couldn’t muster up another response thereafter.
It was another soft goal as well, De Bruyne crossing for Nathan Ake to easily head home at the back post.
As for Oxlade-Chamberlain, he will surely be pleased with his display, as will Klopp.
His pass to release Nunez was outstanding, and he also had a decent penalty claim waved away.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Liverpool future is uncertain.
His contract runs out in the summer and he’s only made five appearances so far this season.
Whatever happens, he’s working hard for Liverpool and deserves more game time over the coming months.