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Liverpool legend Barnes prefers the new signing over Origi and Shaqiri

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In an interview with Liverpool Echo, the Reds legend John Barnes commented on his preference for the attacking position at Anfield.

Liverpool legend John Barnes believes that Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota are two great signings for the club. Moreover, the former Reds man prefers Jota as a better alternative for Divock Origi and Xherdan Shaqiri.

Certainly, Jurgen Klopp added more qualities to Liverpool’s squad during the summer transfer window.

Consequently, Greek defender Kostas Tsimikas also arrived at Anfield. He will play as a back-up option for Andy Robertson.

Furthermore, Thiago and Jota will see minutes on the field after the start of the Premier League this weekend.

Barnes admits that the signings made by Klopp are out of the ordinary and will help Liverpool climb up the ladders.

“They are two excellent signings,” the Reds legend told the Liverpool Echo“They are both players who can come into the first team for an extended period of time.

“Thiago in particular, as he gives the midfield something completely different.

“When Chelsea went down to 10 men, it became immediately obvious Thiago would be the most important player as Liverpool would need creativity from a deeper midfield position.

“Thiago gives Klopp a quality option that can help maintain a level of performance in midfield. There perhaps hasn’t been that previously.

“Jota isn’t necessarily going to come in and take over from any of the front three. But I think Klopp can already rely on him more than Divock Origi or Xherdan Shaqiri for a longer period of time.”

Focus on the Premier League campaign.

The Reds managed to upgrade their roster well this transfer season. However, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson is still out due to suffering from an injury.

Barnes though, believes that Liverpool should focus on the winning mentality instead of the injuries.

He added: “The fact he’s [Alisson] not there, it doesn’t mean Adrian is a bad goalkeeper. It just means the defence aren’t as secure playing in front of Adrian compared to Alisson.

“Look at when Joe Gomez or Joel Matip have played alongside Virgil van Dijk. They are often much better than when they were alongside Dejan Lovren. Gomez or Matip are still the same player, but they feel more comfortable around a better player.

“That is something Jurgen Klopp will be telling his players – to forget about the fact Alisson isn’t there because they just have to get on with it.”

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