Milner hails ‘top-class’ Alisson after late Newcastle save
James Milner has heaped praise on Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson after his game-saving stop against Newcastle United.
Liverpool were left frustrated as they were held to a goalless draw at St James’ Park by Newcastle. Steve Bruce’s side defended valiantly to remain in the game, but they could have easily won it late on.
With around ten minutes to go, Ciaran Clark forced Alisson into a superb save as his header looked like to was heading for the bottom corner.
MAILBOX: All the reasons why Liverpool can’t win the title…
It finished 0-0, but it could have been a whole lot worse for Jurgen Klopp’s men if Alisson had not made that save.
The Reds are now three points clear at the top of the Premier League. But Manchester United could move level on points with them if they win their game in hand.
In his post-match interview, as cited by Liverpool’s official website, Milner insisted that Alisson showed just how good of a goalkeeper he is against Newcastle:
“I think it was a big improvement [on West Brom]. We’ve come up against two very stubborn teams, given everything to get the points.
“At least we performed better. Unfortunately, it wasn’t good enough for the three points but we’ve got to keep pushing.
“We created enough chances, [were] solid at the back, any balls that popped out we were winning.
“But a mixture of good goalkeeping, defending, a bit of bad luck and maybe not taking our chances well enough was the difference.
“It’s important that you just keep it moving, keep patient and make sure you have movement upfront.
“It’s easy to sometimes get frustrated and try difficult balls or too straight balls over the top and they get cut out.
“We restricted them most of the game but Ali is top-class – everybody knows that. Especially on a night like tonight, it’s going to be pretty cold for him I can imagine, standing at the back with not too much to do.
“Then having to pull a save out like that towards the end – that shows how good he is and what a big player he is for us.”