Liverpool's assistant manager Pep Lijnders has outlined how the signing of Thiago Alcantara will help the Premier League champions "stay unpredictable".
The 29-year-old's arrival from Bayern Munich has been met with plenty of optimism around Anfield after months of speculation linking him with a transfer.
Thiago has already got his Liverpool career off to a promising start - breaking a Premier League record in just 45 minutes on his debut.
After coming on at half-time against Chelsea the midfield orchestrator completed 75 passes - more than any player has done in that time frame in the division previously.
And Lijnders explained how Thiago's ability to conduct play and confuse the opposition is precisely what The Reds required to continue their progression.
"[Thiago] will make sure that the team will evolve and make the next step," Lijnders said at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's Carabao Cup clash against Lincoln.
"Overall, it’s important for the team to stay unpredictable, that from each position we can play the last pass and we can speed up as much as possible in the small passes."
While Liverpool already have the likes of their potent front three to bamboozle defenders, Lijnders hinted towards a growing issue which appears to be threatening the club's dominance.
An increasing number of teams are appearing to operate a wholly defensive approach when coming up against the champions by throwing 11 men behind the ball in a bit to stifle and frustrate them, particularly at Anfield.
Thiago possesses the vision and skill to break enemy lines and unlock defences with a single pass, making his addition ideal for Liverpool's needs.
"We brought a solution for the upcoming problems hopefully," Lijnders said.
Liverpool's no.2 was stepping in for boss Jurgen Klopp for media duties ahead of Thursday's cup meeting with League One side Lincoln.
The Reds are expected to wring the changes for the tie at Sincil Bank, with youngster Billy Koumetio and new signing Diogo Jota in contention.
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Lijnders said: "It's about finding a good balance.
"It's a great competition to combine experience and talent.
"We will be playing a team that will defend deep and counter-attack and has pace on the wings.
"The team we put in place is one that will be prepared"
Adding of Jota, he said: "Diogo, his technical level is the same as our front three.
"He is like a pressing monster and he will fit in. He has the future in his feet."
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