Harvey Elliott has told Liverpool’s website that Luis Diaz is a “world-class player”, and an “exceptional talent” after the two came on together against Cardiff on Sunday. Diaz got an assist, and Elliott opened his Reds account.
Liverpool hardly needed to get out of second gear against their Championship opposition in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Diogo Jota and Takumi Minamino opened the scoring, before sub Elliott made it three.
Diaz, 25, got the assist for Minamino as his determination and work rate saw Minamino slide in a second. Elliot’s stunning swivel and shot was heavily praised by Troy Deeney on BBC’s FA Cup highlights show.
Speaking about Diaz after he made his return from an ankle injury, Elliott was full of admiration of Liverpool’s newest star. He predicted that Diaz would go and show everyone what he is capable of, after his January move.
“He’s got exceptional talent. He’s a top guy as well. I’m sure he’ll show what he’s about. He’s a world-class player and he’s only going to get better here. I’m sure he’ll go on and show the world what he’s capable of,” Elliott said.
Elliott on Diaz: Is new Liverpool star good enough to break into side?
Diaz looks ready-made for Liverpool. Still only 25, the South American sensation cost a sizable fee but given the calibre of player and the form he showed for Porto – Liverpool might have brought in a bargain.
As Elliott says, there were examples of it on Sunday. His feet to get away from a Cardiff defender before sliding in Minamino was breathtaking, and instinctive. That raw talent is the kind of quality Liverpool need.
Can he get past Mo Salah or Sadio Mane? Probably not over the next few months. But with both Liverpool attackers in the last 18 months of their deal, who knows what the summer window may bring.
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