Liverpool winger Luis Diaz delivered an immense performance during the Carabao Cup final win over Chelsea.
The Reds celebrated a record 10th League Cup win by beating the Blues at Wembley on Sunday. Virgil van Dijk scored the only goal of the final with a towering header in the 118th minute.
The Dutchman produced a fantastic all-round display. Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was also brilliant with nine saves including two superb stops to deny Cole Palmer and Conor Gallagher.
There were no surprises that the duo earned plenty of plaudits but in our opinion, Diaz also delivered an exceptional showing over 120 minutes. He led by example in the final third.
With recent injuries to Mohamed Salah, Diogo Dalot and Darwin Nunez, the Reds needed someone to show leadership up front and Diaz perfected the role with his tireless attacking runs.
The 27-year-old could not find the back of the net, but he did most things right. The Colombian had a passing accuracy of 89 per cent and completed 100 per cent of his long balls (3/3).
He also won nine duels and completed five dribbles while creating four chances for his teammates. It was a selfless display from Diaz, who worked hard for the team over 120 minutes.
Liverpool will be back in action against Southampton in the FA Cup fifth round at Anfield on Wednesday evening.
Manager Jurgen Klopp has hinted that there could be changes, considering the high intensity of the Carabao Cup final and the need to protect key players for the Premier League and European games ahead.
We won’t be surprised if Diaz is one of those left on the bench, having given his all for 120 minutes in the final. Wataru Endo could potentially miss out on the game, having been spotted with a protective boot.
Stats from Sofascore.com
