Xabi Alonso backs Thiago Alcantara to repeat Bayern Munich connection at Liverpool

Xabi Alonso has hailed Liverpool's "fabulous" new signing Thiago Alcantara and backed the midfielder to have a similar impact at Anfield as he did at Bayern Munich.

Thiago made the switch to Merseyside from Munich in the summer after helping Bayern complete a prestigious treble.

Since then the Spaniard has only made two appearances for Liverpool after suffering injury against Everton last month, but is nearing a return to action.

His comeback would significantly boost Jurgen Klopp's side at a time when they are in desperate need of reinforcements.

And Alonso - who also played for Bayern following a stint with Liverpool - believes his compatriot will slip in seamlessly to Klopp's side.

Alonso has backed Thiago to become Liverpool's midfield playmaker (PA)

“I have loved watching Thiago Alcantara, the way he has been able to connect with the attacking players, helping to defend with his special qualities,” Alonso told UEFA’s official website.

“He’s a great friend, but above that, he’s become one of the best midfielders, and he’s a fabulous, intelligent, interesting, fun guy to be around in a training session and a dressing room.

“He loves football; he shows that with his personality and with the way he plays. He’s able to connect with his team-mates very easily. He’s done it fantastically at Bayern, and I feel that he’s going to do it in the same way at Liverpool, and I love it.”

Thiago has now missed Liverpool's last eight matches with the knee problem sustained in the Merseyside derby after Richarlison's horror challenge in the dying minutes, which earned the Toffees' striker a straight red card.

The 29-year-old has been pictured at Liverpool's training ground in recent weeks, but Klopp revealed Thiago is yet to be involved in full sessions with his teammates.

"Thiago is not in team training yet," said the Reds boss earlier this week. "When will he be in team training? I don't know. We will see.

"I'm as surprised as the public. In the morning I come in, we have a medical meeting and they tell me 'yes he is in, he is not'.

"I know it's not too far anymore (for Thiago), but I have no idea [when he will be back]."