"Necessity in Jurgen Klopp’s team" - Paul Merson on Fabinho

Former Arsenal player Paul Merson has waxed lyrical about Liverpool midfielder Fabinho.

The Reds signed the Brazil international from Monaco for a transfer fee of €45 million back in the summer of 2018.

Since then, Fabinho has gone on to make 170 appearances for the club's first-team. The 28-year-old has helped Liverpool win the Champions League, Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, Premier League title, League Cup and FA Cup.

Fabinho is clearly a key cog in Jurgen Klopp's side. However, Merson has implied that the midfielder could be the German's most important player.

As quoted by the Liverpool Echo, he told Sportskeeda: "I’m going to go out of the box here and pick a player whose absence caused Liverpool to struggle. If Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah do not play, Liverpool still manage to win. Fabinho, however, is a necessity in Jurgen Klopp’s team.

“Liverpool’s midfield isn’t particularly strong, and Fabinho holds his team together admirably. He’s an absolute must in the midfield three and has played pivotal roles in their best performances this season.

“With all the talent that Liverpool have on the pitch, we forget that Alisson has made so many brilliant saves for them this season. I could’ve gone with Salah or (Virgil) Van Dijk, but this lad makes big saves at big times in big football matches – more so than any other goalkeeper.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

We completely agree with Merson that Fabinho is a top player. He is brilliant at breaking down opposition attacks.

Fabinho is also capable of finding the back of the net. The Brazil international scored eight goals across 48 appearances last season.

Fabinho is very much a complete footballer. Therefore, we are delighted that he is contracted until the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign.