Thiago played like he was in his back yard v Manchester United

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has lauded Reds midfielder Thiago Alcantara for his display against Manchester United.

The Spain international started for Jurgen Klopp’s side in the 4-0 win over the Red Devils at Anfield on Tuesday night.

And Thiago delivered an utterly sensational display as Liverpool hammered United, just as they did in October.

In the first half alone, the £25million man took 68 touches, made 60 passes at 98.3% accuracy, including three key passes, and also made two tackles.

“Thiago is making the ball talk in these first 19 minutes,” Carragher said on Sky Sports commentary (19/4/22, 20:19).

Liverpool had already taken the lead by that point, Luis Diaz putting the Reds ahead after just five minutes.

By the 22nd minute, the hosts had doubled their advantage, Mohamed Salah firing home from a superb Sadio Mane assist.

Early in the second half, Carragher added (21:13): “Watching Thiago, it’s like he’s playing in his back yard with his kids.

United had begun the second half brightly, so Carragher warned “Liverpool just have to be careful of complacency.

“The next goal could bring Man Utd back into the game.”

“Absolutely outstanding”

Liverpool were indeed careful, holding their opponents at bay and racing further ahead in the 68th minute.

Andrew Robertson led a counter-attack and laid the ball off to Diaz, who in turn pulled the ball back for Mane.

The Senegal international fired home a first-time finish, Liverpool once again making it look so simple.

There was time for another Reds goal, Salah’s 85th-minute effort coming off Aaron Wan-Bissaka and looping into the net.

Thiago ended up coming off to an Anfield standing ovation in the 78th minute, just after weighing in with another superb cross-field effort.

“Thiago – absolutely outstanding all night,” said Neville (21:41).

Carragher added: “There’s no doubt that’s the best game he’s ever had at Anfield.”

What a player.