Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool coach, was satisfied with Fabinho's performance in the “net” defense axis against Ajax (0-1 for Anfield in the first day of the Champions League). The German coach lined up the Brazilian midfielder in said demarcation against Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip's injuries.
Fabinho complied with a note and prevented Dusan Tadic from scoring: the Liverpool player saved on the same line what would have been the first goal of the ‘ajacied’.
“Was there pressure in that situation? Yes, it was clear to the two in the back. 100 percent. Fabinho can play in this position. He likes it, ”Klopp told the media.
“I'm not surprised that he played well in this position, if he had been like that we would have thought of another solution, although it would have been more difficult. I am very satisfied for him. This gave him confidence and that helped us ”.
“If I had asked him to play as a right back, I don't think he would have enjoyed it as much as in center. In our situation … we have to keep those guys in shape and then of course they can help us a lot. “
Klopp sought to avoid potential injury problems for his magic trident by replacing Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané and Roberto Firmino with an hour to go at the Johan Cruyff Arena, with a muddy pitch. “It was complicated but it was the same for Ajax.” Liverpool will face Sheffield United in the Premier League on Saturday.