Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson has received the backing of Brazil legend Rivaldo in the wake of his Manchester City errors.
Alisson was at fault for two of City goals in Liverpool 's 4-1 defeat at Anfield on Sunday.
With the game level at 1-1, the Reds stopper gave the ball away twice in quick succession, allowing Ilkay Gundogan and Raheem Sterling to score for the visitors.
The uncharacteristic mistakes proved costly as Liverpool ended up well beaten and now trail leaders City by 10 points in the Premier League.
Rivaldo has now jumped to the defence of his compatriot - and blamed the team's overall defensive issues for what transpired.
"Liverpool's goalkeeper had a bad day against Manchester City, making errors for two of City's goals in that match, but I don't think that Reds fans will blame or criticise him excessively," the former Barcelona star told Betfair.
"After all, he has been very reliable and sometimes a saviour for many years.
"Additionally, Liverpool are not in a good place with obvious defensive problems and that exposes Alisson a bit more.
"When you have to intervene more times during a match there are bigger chances of committing mistakes."
In contrast, another Brazilian keeper, Ederson, is riding high with in-form City.
"It's Alisson's compatriot and rival on the Brazilian national team, Ederson, who is enjoying a great moment with Manchester City flying in Premier League thanks to 10 successive wins and going clear at the top of the table," Rivaldo added.
"Ederson is strongly contributing for as he has only conceded three times in the last 15 matches.
"Pep Guardiola's team have drastically improved defensively, while Liverpool is going through the opposite.
"The Spanish coach praised the Brazilian goalkeeper, especially for his feet qualities, and even joked about it by mentioning that if his team continues missing so many penalties then he might consider picking Ederson to take them.
"Yes, I suppose it was just a joke because City have great players in attack, but it was a way to praise the Brazilian.
"In terms of the Brazilian national team, I don't believe that this form will make Tite change his preference for Alisson in the starting 11.
"Anyway, it's always nice to have such good options like Ederson to pick when necessary."
