Thierry Henry names the player who should not have started against Villarreal

Former Arsenal forward Thierry Henry believes that Liverpool striker Diogo Jota should not have started against Villarreal at the Estadio de la Ceramica last night.

The Portugal international has been a squad player for the Reds in recent weeks. However, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp opted to start Jota in the club's Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Villarreal.

The decision did not pay off, as the 25-year-old was replaced by Luis Diaz at half-time. Also, Liverpool were 2-0 down at the break.

Henry questioned Klopp's tactics at half-time.

“It’s not a game for Diogo Jota," he told CBS Sport (03/05/2022 08:50pm BST).

"He’s a player who arrives late in the box from crosses, when you dominate. He’s kind of good (in these games).

"But, Luis Diaz can bail you out by dribbling. You need someone who can dribble past players right now. (Mohamed) Salah can do that. (Sadio) Mane can do that. But maybe not Diogo Jota like that.”

Liverpool ended up securing a 3-2 victory over Villarreal last night (5-2 on aggregate) to progress to the final.

Anfield Watch Verdict

Henry was correct in the end. Diaz was such a threat when he got on the ball against Villarreal.

The Colombia international found the back of the net and registered a WhoScored player rating of 7.6 for his performance against the La Liga side.

In other words, Diaz helped Liverpool win the match and progress to the final.

At least Klopp was wise enough to realise that he had to bring the winger on at half-time. The German did not let the game drift.

Liverpool will either play Real Madrid or Manchester City in the final. The Citizens possess a 4-3 aggregate lead over the La Liga side heading into the second leg, which is taking place at the Bernabeu tonight.