BBC Match of the Day and BT Sport pundit Gary Lineker has heaped praise on Liverpool winger Diogo Jota after the Reds'Â 5-0 victory against Atalanta, just days after facing huge criticism from fans on Merseyside.
Jota does it again
The Portuguese frontman scored a sensational hat-trick out in Italy to secure all three points for the Reds and ensured that they remained top of their Champions League group without conceding a goal (via BBC Sport).
Jota had already proven to be a huge influence in Jurgen Klopp's side, scoring against Arsenal, Sheffield United and West Ham United at Anfield to secure the points in those games.
Klopp has been delighted with the impact that the £36m-rated (Transfermarkt) talent has had, describing him as a "top guy" after proving to be match-winner after such a short period at Anfield (cited by Goal).
Lineker agreed and made his feelings clear on Twitter after the full-time whistle, and teased that Jota could be good enough to break up Liverpool's notorious front three.
These comments come after a massive backlash from the Kop faithful towards the former England striker after his comments on Harry Kane's penalty against Brighton, feeling that the narrative has been different compared to Mohamed Salah. Perhaps Reds fans will enjoy seeing something a bit more positive from the popular pundit.
Transfer Tavern take
Lineker's comments cannot be faulted. Jota has been a revelation since arriving at Anfield and it sets up a tasty encounter with Manchester City at the weekend.
Liverpool will have gained confidence from this victory, despite going through a major injury crisis in their defensive department with key talisman Virgil van Dijk ruled out with knee ligament damage.
There will be calls for Jota to start at the Etihad Stadium after supporters have been critical towards Roberto Firmino, which could give Liverpool the edge on the day. However, it is certainly a big claim to say Jota could 'improve' what has arguably been the most dominant attacking force in Europe for multiple seasons.
In other news, club chief predicts that high-profile striker could be Liverpool bound.