Liverpool fans will be delighted with the recent performances of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho.

Out of the blue back in May, Liverpool announced the capture of the Brazil international, paying £43m to bring him to Anfield from Monaco. The defensive midfielder had developed into a key player for the French side, helping them lift a Ligue 1 title. He was expected to become a first-team regular upon the move, but Jurgen Klopp instead decided to limit his opportunities until he was suitably acclimatised to life in England.

After celebrating his 25^th birthday, Klopp handed Fabinho his first Champions League start against Red Star Belgrade and the Brazilian quickly repaid his manager’s faith. Liverpool fans were left in awe of his performance, winning tackles, transitioning defence to attack while displaying his range of passing. He looked like the player Liverpool had lacked since Xabi Alonso, and Javier Mascherano left the club.

Again, Klopp trusted the midfielder to start his first Premier League game in the absence of Naby Keita and Jordan Henderson against Cardiff. Once more, Fabinho excelled in the centre of the park. The Brazil international was rarely found out of position, helping shield the defence – winning 100% of his tackles against the Bluebirds. Always looking to play forward, Fabinho also completed 88% of his passes and played a lovely pass to Mohamed Salah who set up Liverpool’s third goal (WhoScored).

Should his form continue, Henderson will face an uphill battle to regain his place in the Liverpool starting eleven. It may have taken a while, but Fabinho’s introduction to the side has definitely been worth the wait.

Liverpool fans, thoughts?