Arne Slot admits he was surprised by Federico Chiesa’s first Liverpool start.
Chiesa was handed a full debut in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup third round demolition of West Ham United after making his summer move from Juventus
The Italy international provided an assist for Diogo Jota to level the tie before being replaced by Mohamed Salah shortly before the hour mark at Anfield.
And Slot revealed that Chiesa surpassed expectations, having only made substitute appearances against AC Milan and Bournemouth previously.
He said: “It was pleasing to see that he could already play 60 minutes, because he has played hardly any minutes in the last three or four months.
“So it’s important for him – apart from getting more match fitness – to get playing minutes. That’s what he got today.
“He assisted, although it was a shot on target that was ‘promoted’ by Jota to a goal!
“Worked really hard, I think it’s normal that he’s not already at the top of his ability.
“He has to get used to the club, he has to get used to his teammates, he has to just get used to the playing style.
“But very good to see how match fit he already is, so we can use him when we need him.”