Steven Gerrard was left impressed by Stefan Bajcetic's all-action display during Liverpool's Merseyside derby triumph on Monday evening.
The 18-year-old has been a revelation in midfielder for Jurgen Klopp's side since making his first-team breakthrough this campaign, securing a regular spot in the starting eleven at the expense of experienced professionals such as Fabinho and Jordan Henderson.
Bajcetic has been a shining light for Liverpool in an otherwise season to forget, putting in performances possessing a level of maturity way beyond his years. Such has been the progress made by the teenager in recent months, he was last month rewarded with a long-term contract.
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Making his presence felt once again, the Spaniard was named Man of the Match on Monday night after playing a key role in the Reds' vital three points earned on home soil. Supporters now have no doubts remaining over whether or not Bajcetic is ready to serve as a first-team option for the club, with some likening his latest display to Steven Gerrard during his early Liverpool days.
It seems Gerrard himself is sold on the ex-Celta Vigo star, highlighted by the post-match reaction of the Liverpool legend on the Reds' official Instagram account. Leaving a comment on the club's post praising Bajcetic, Gerrard added a fire and clapping hands emoji to sum up his thoughts.
Asked after the derby whether this was his best collective display of his time at the club, Bajcetic told Sky Sports: “I would say so. We all knew it was a very important win for us and now hopefully we keep going and win more games. 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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