BBC pundit Garth Crooks has claimed Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker could be one character contributing to Liverpool’s chances of winning the title this season.
The Brazilian international made a number of outstanding saves to ensure the Reds collected all three points in Saturday’s clash with Crystal Palace.
The three points also moved Jurgen Klopp’s side to the top of the league and Crooks said Alisson will be pivotal if they are to remain there:
“Liverpool have somehow fought they way to the top with sheer grit and determination. Some pundits fancy Manchester City for the title, while others have gone for Arsenal and even Aston Villa think they’ve got a chance. However, I’m starting to lean towards Liverpool. They’ve got the right goalkeeper for it.”
Klopp’s men are a point ahead of 2nd place Arsenal in the table as we near the halfway stage of the season, with Villa in third and City in fourth.
Looking at the xG from the match at Selhurst Park, Palace’s was 1.79, while Liverpool’s was only 1.37. It could be argued that the Eagles should have won the game 2-1, rather than the Reds, based on those figures.
However, when you have a world-class keeper between the sticks, it can be the deciding factor in tight matches.
Alisson’s save in the first-half when he tipped Jefferson Lerma’s shot on the post was excellent, as was his fingertip stop to prevent Joachim Andersen scoring from a header just before full-time.
Despite the Reds being top of the league, Manchester City are still priced as odds-on to retain the title, even though they are now 4 points adrift.
The Merseysiders have, though, seen their odds shorten considerably, with many bookies now regarding them as second favourites along with Arsenal to finish top.
