When Liverpool splashed out on Fabinho and Naby Keita in the summer, few expected them to struggle as they have early on in their Anfield careers. Yet it has opened the door to another player who has exceeded expectations: Matty Virtue.
The under 23’s captain has taken on the armband under Neil Critchley and excelled, scoring three goals in seven games so far this season from midfield.
A combative and energetic option, he is most comfortable centrally but has also featured on the right at times and offers great flexibility.

During the international break, Virtue trained alongside the likes of Alberto Moreno, Joel Matip and Daniel Sturridge who were not selected for international duty.
Having held his own in front of the onlooking Jurgen Klopp, it may not be a surprise if the 21-year-old earns a first team debut in cup competitions sooner rather than later.
After excelling at Notts County on loan last season, another loan spell could beckon, but he may be keeping his fingers crossed for a run out in the FA Cup before considering such a move.
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