Jurgen Klopp says Diogo Jota has 'turned into a world class striker' since his arrival at Liverpool, which he says has been 'pretty helpful' to their cause.
The 25-year-old scored both goals as the Reds beat Arsenal 2-0 in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, securing a spot in the Wembley final against Chelsea next month.
It was a fine performance from the Portuguese, and especially pleasing for the manager who is having to do without star forwards Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane who are at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Divock Origi is also out injured.
Jota was something of a surprise signing when he arrived from Wolves for just over £40m in September 2020, but he has been a massive hit, with 27 goals in 57 games across all competitions.
Klopp says the club were fully confident in his abilities when they stumped up the cash for Jota, but maybe not that he was going to be such a lethal force as a striker when required, having spent much time on the wing in the past.
'We were completely convinced when he arrived that he will help us massively,' Klopp told Sky Sports of Jota.
'When you watch a player before you sign him, nowadays you can watch 100 games if you want, and we were really confident.
'Since he's here he made another step and he's absolutely helpful. He's just really turned into a world class striker meanwhile, and how's that for us? Pretty helpful.'
Trent Alexnader-Arnold echoed his manager's thoughts, also hailing Jota as a world class talent, saying: 'Diogo's first goal was outstanding from him, the type of player he is. And again the second goal, he has done outstanding again.
'He is a world-class player in possibly the best form he's found himself in at the club so far. Hopefully more goals for him and hopefully we'll be able to get a win in the final.'
MORE : Jurgen Klopp singles out Gabriel Martinelli after Liverpool beat Arsenal in Carabao Cup semi final
MORE : Mikel Arteta defends ill-fated decision to play Thomas Partey in Arsenal loss to Liverpool
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