Rio Ferdinand reacts to Fabinho’s display in Liverpool win

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Rio Ferdinand has told BT Sport (broadcast on 10/3; 21:51) that Fabinho’s performance in midfield was a big plus for Liverpool as they booked their quarter-final ticket in the Champions League.

The Brazilian made a long-awaited return to midfield on Wednesday as the Reds faced RB Leipzig in the second-leg of their last 16 tie.

The 27-year-old has predominantly played as a centre-back this season amid the incredible injury crisis Jurgen Klopp has had to deal with.

And he more than played his part in the more familiar role. Liverpool secured another 2-0 win over the Bundesliga side to quite comfortably put themselves in the last eight.

And following the game, Ferdinand insisted that Fabinho’s display was a huge positive for the six-time winners of the competition.

“A big plus for me I would say, and Klopp I’m sure will be smiling about is having Fabinho in that central of the midfield,” he told BT Sport.

“The enforcer, someone who can protect that weaker back line. I’m sure he’ll be looking to keep him in there to consolidate things in there and make sure that’s the platform, the foundation to build from.”

It would certainly be a surprise to see Fabinho return to centre-back anytime soon. Liverpool really looked stronger with him in midfield.

As shown by Whoscored.com, he made three tackles and four interceptions. Thiago Alcantara was the only Liverpool player to win more challenges, while no teammate bettered his tally of interceptions.

It must not be forgotten that Fabinho has produced some colossal performances at centre-back this season. But it was nice to be reminded of what he can do in his best role.