Martin Keown has revealed who he believes is Liverpool’s most important player this season—and it’s neither Mohamed Salah nor Virgil van Dijk.
The Reds have enjoyed an incredible campaign so far, with Arne Slot's sitting top of the Premier League and having qualified for the knockout stages after finishing top of the Champions League table.
At the start of the season, the Reds midfield was a cause for concern amongst pundits after they failed to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad during the summer transfer window. However those that occupy the centre of the pitch have been heavily praised throughout the campaign.
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Speaking on Match of the Day following Liverpool's 2-0 win against Bournemouth on Saturday, Keown said: “The midfield trio, I think they’ve been outstanding – the best midfield in the Premier League, so far.”
However one player stood out most for the 58-year-old and that was Ryan Gravenberch. The former Arsenal defender was left in awe by a first-half pass from Gravenberch, praising the Dutch midfielder's ability to switch play with the quality and precision reminiscent of Anfield legend Steven Gerrard.
When analyzing his performance Keown added: “This fella is the most improved player in a Liverpool shirt, this is a Gerrard pass, Hollywood ball, a 30-yard raking pass to change the variations of the attack.”
Being compared to Liverpool's legendary captain is high praise for the Dutchman and highlights his impressive form. With Slot confirming that No.38 was given a different role at the Vitality Stadium, the praise and result suggest it was a successful tweak.
The 22-year-old showcased his dribbling skills against Andoni Iraola’s side, leaving opponents struggling to keep up, while his passing also caught the eye of the former Arsenal defender.
Gravenberch has been a revelation this season, looking like a completely transformed player from the previous campaign where he struggled for game time in his debut season on Merseyside.
