18-year-old Stefan Bajcetic dropped an absolute masterclass in the Merseyside derby win over Everton on Monday night and his highlights make for wonderful viewing.
Liverpool picked up their first win of 2023 thanks to goals from Mo Salah and Cody Gakpo, the latter opening his account for the Reds.
It was a much-needed result and performance for Jurgen Klopp's men after a dire run of form.
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Even in their recent struggles, pint-sized midfielder Bajcetic impressed and Salah called him the team's "best player" ever since he came into the side.
And he produced a stunning display in the middle of the park in his latest Anfield outing.
Jamie Carragher worried about how the young Spaniard would cope against the physicality of Idrissa Gueye, Amadou Onana and Abdoulaye Doucoure.
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But he fared brilliantly and was named Man of the Match by the Liverpool legend. Only a year ago he was playing under 18's football but here he was playing with remarkable composure on the big stage.
It wasn't just his incredible range of passing which caught the eye, however. Bajcetic had a real bite about him and wasn't afraid to mix it in with Everton's towering midfielders when needed.
When he was substituted late on for Naby Keita, the former Celta Vigo man received a standing ovation from all four corners of the ground.
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It was a special performance and one which justifies Liverpool's decision to hand him a new and improved contract.
And fans waxed lyrical about the youngster, who already looks to be a serious talent.
One wrote: "Been covering LFC for more years than I care to remember, but seriously can't recall an 18 y o showing the sheer composure in a derby that Stefan Bajcetic did tonight...not even Gerrard. Kid reads the game so well too. Has huge future if he develops as he should under Klopp."
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A second said: "It was only right that Stefan Bajcetic departed the field to a rousing ovation tonight. Another magnificent display from him; composed, mature & disciplined. 18 years of age. Bloody hell."
Another said: "Trent Alexander Arnold started our dominance a few years, he was a positive in a side that was shaky. The same looks to be happening with Stefan Bajcetic."
A fourth tweeted: "Think a lot of our young players get overhyped, but Stefan Bajcetic is it."
A fifth opined: "Stefan Bajcetic is only 18 playing his 1st full season and already is our best midfielder right now. This kid is special."
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Bajcetic received his flowers in his post-match interview with Sky Sports and after being praised by Salah, agreed that it was his best display for Liverpool.
"Yeah, I would say so," he said.
"I was really proud and buzzing to be in the derby, we all know it was a very important win for us and now hopefully keep going.
"It's crazy to be fair, I always say a year ago I was playing under 18s football and now playing at Anfield and that's happened in just one year, it's so crazy but I'm enjoying it a lot."
Featured Image Credit: Sky SportsTopics: Liverpool, Everton, Premier League, Jurgen Klopp
