Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp lauds ‘outstanding’ Gabriel Martinelli

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was full of praise for Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli following the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners held on for a sublime 0-0 draw with 10 men in the first leg, but they failed to put up a strong performance against the Reds yesterday.

Jurgen Klopp’s side scored in either half through Diogo Jota. They will meet Chelsea in the competition’s final at the Wembley Stadium on February 27.

Following the game, Klopp singled out Martinelli for praise saying that he is ‘an outstanding player’ and ‘everybody should remember that name’.

He said: “Martinelli by the way, everybody should remember that name,” Klopp said. “He’s an outstanding player.”

Our view:

Klopp previously said that Martinelli was the ‘talent of the century’. There were no surprises that the German tactician highlighted his performance again.

The Brazilian has been a top performer for the Gunners since becoming a regular after the last international break. He has cemented his spot on the left wing.

Martinelli made a quick start to the proceedings yesterday as he got the better of Trent Alexander-Arnold, but was unable to capitalise on those moments.

The attacker went through a lean phase thereafter, but picked up during the back end where he had a couple of chances to find the back of the net.

He could not make a goal contribution, but one can’t deny his effort.  Martinelli finished the game with four take-ons while winning eight duels.

Martinelli had two attempts on goal while completing 80 per cent of his passes. He will be key for the club as they look to push for the top four.

Stats from SofaScore.com

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