Gary Neville has heaped praise on Liverpool forward Divock Origi.
The 24-year-old Belgian striker started the Reds’ first game of the new campaign against Norwich City, and was on hand to engineer the chance that led to Grant Hanley’s opening own goal in a 3-0 win.
And Neville has been quick to sing his praises due to his willingness to fill in only when needed.
Speaking on Sky Sports (Sky Sports Premier League, August 9th, 7.30pm), he said: “Origi’s happy just to play second fiddle a little bit.
“If one of them [Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino] is injured or needs a rest, he’ll fill in all across the frontline, does a brilliant job. He’s perfect for Liverpool. He fits the bill in terms of what Jurgen Klopp wants.
“Yeah, he’s a little bit scruffy at times in terms of him not being the finished article like the other three that are there, but you’re never going to get another one of those three who’s going to sit on the bench and be happy.”
OPINION
Neville is bang on the money with this one. At the end of the day, Liverpool could go and spend £60 million on another striker who would catch the eye and bolster their lineup, but those players be happy with a bit part role? Probably not. Origi, on the other hand, is, and when he is called upon, he brings quality and energy to the side. The Belgian managed an average of 3.2 shots on goal per 90 minutes last season, as well as wining 3.9 aerial duels per 90 too, as per Whoscored. He is a live wire, and he will get at a defender without a moment’s hesitation. Origi can cause problems for any team in the division, and at the end of the day, when you’re looking for a capable deputy, that it just about all you can ask for. Now that he is tied down long term, here’s hoping he can continue to make himself a legend.
