BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks has lauded Liverpool star Alisson Becker after his display against Crystal Palace, with the result putting the Reds nine points off Manchester City in the table.
Writing in his Team of the Week column, the former Stoke City attacker was full of praise for Alisson’s performance against Crystal Palace, with the pundit suggesting that the 3-1 win has given Liverpool a small amount of hope of catching up with their Manchester rivals.
Liverpool have a game in hand over City as Pep Guardiola’s side drew 1-1 at St. Mary’s against Southampton, with the result snapping the club’s impressive winning streak in all competitions.
The Reds, however, were 3-1 victors against Palace. However, the scoreline could have read a lot differently had Alisson not been in the form he was in. And according to Crooks, the Brazilian’s quality could fire Liverpool back into the title race.
The pundit said: “The point-blank save from Jean-Philippe Mateta set the scene for what was another exceptional performance from Alisson away at Crystal Palace. Liverpool desperately needed to win this game in order to close the gap on Manchester City.”
Crooks added: “A point was no use to Liverpool in the battle for the title but Alisson has given Liverpool a glimmer of hope should Manchester City continue to drop points. Even if it’s only a glimmer.”
Alisson shone against Palace, but title is still out of Liverpool’s grasp
After a rare City slip-up and a Liverpool win, it’s easy to suggest that the Premier League title race could suddenly restart into life. Yet even after Alisson’s incredible display against Palace, Guardiola’s side still holds all the cards.
Indeed, City remain nine points clear of Liverpool and the most in-form side in the Premier League. And barring a miracle, the title will likely remain in Manchester for a second season-in-a-row.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
