Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic has described his rise to the first team as "crazy" after putting in a stand-out performance against Everton.
The 18-year-old was named man-of-the-match by former Reds defender Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports for his role in the 2-0 win against Sean Dyche's side. It was just Bajcetic's sixth Premier League appearance since making his debut as a substitute during the 9-0 home rout over Bournemouth at the end of August.
The young Spaniard's elevation into Jurgen Klopp's starting line-up is startling. He was signed from Celta Vigo as a 16-year-old defender but since he has evolved into a midfielder and has staked his claim as the future of Liverpool's engine room.
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"To be fair it was a different position, I thought it would be less comfortable, but it was good, I enjoyed it a lot," Bajcetic said speaking to Sky Sports after the match.
The Reds' recent poor run of form cast a dark cloud over Anfield prior to the victory over Everton. But the emergence of Bajcetic has provided a glimmer of light, which was reiterated by Mohamed Salah.
Salah, who set Liverpool on their way to victory over the Blues, claimed that the teenager had been the team's best player since breaking into the side. The Egyptian said: "He’s a great player and a great person, he always tries to work hard and I think that since he’s started playing with us he’s our best player. Hopefully he still has that confidence and we just keep going."
Bajcetic responded: "Wow, he’s Mo Salah! He’s probably one of the best players ever in Liverpool history so it’s nice to hear a legend say that to me.
"It’s crazy to be fair. I always say a year ago I was playing under-18s football and now I’m playing at Anfield. That’s just happened in one year and it’s so crazy. I’m enjoying it a lot here."
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