Mohamed Salah says Stefan Bajcetic has been Liverpool’s standout performer since his breakthrough as teenager reflects on rapid rise to first team after man-of-the-match display against Everton

Liverpool starlet Stefan Bajcetic has been the club’s best player since breaking into the first team, according to Mohamed Salah.

The 18-year-old midfielder put in a man-of-the-match display in the Reds’ 2-0 Premier League win against rivals Everton an Anfield on Monday night.

Spain youth international Bajcetic has featured in six Premier League games this season – where he has been included in manager Jurgen Klopp‘s last three starting line-ups.

And he once again showcased his talent as he thrived in his first Merseyside derby to help the Reds move up to ninth in the table.

Salah, who broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, lauded the youngster following the full-time whistle in an interview with Sky Sports.

Speaking of the ex-Celtic Vigo youth star, the Egyptian forward said: “He’s a great player and person, he always tries to work hard.

“Since he started playing for us, he has been our best player maybe so hopefully he keeps that confidence and keeps going.”

Bajcetic, who was left almost lost for words by Salah’s praise, was playing in a more advanced role as opposed to his usual holding midfield position.

He told Sky: “To be fair, I played in a different position, I thought it would be less comfortable but it was good and I enjoyed it a lot.

“Mo Salah is probably one of the best players ever in Liverpool history so it is nice to hear a legend say that to me.

“I won more confidence playing at Anfield for a couple of games so I always love a tackle so I combine both and that is good.

“It was a great game, with the crowd and the derby. Hopefully we keep playing well and win more games.”

Commenting on his rise to the first team, he remarked: “It’s crazy, I was playing under-18s a year ago.

“And now I am playing at Anfield and that just happened in one year and I am really enjoying it.”

Klopp was also quick to laud Bajcetic. “I saw a lot of good performances tonight, but Stefan showed up.

“We are really happy with him, a top boy; really smart and calm.

“He played in a new position, at eight, and I asked him afterwards if he liked it and he said ‘yes’. It is a nice story.”

And fans certainly thought highly of him, with former player Jamie Carragher tweeting: “A big win and a huge improvement in the performance from Liverpool tonight. Salah and Nunez looked very sharp and Bajcetic was outstanding.”

Another former Red, Jose Enrique said: “Bajcetic today is showing all of us why Klopp is trusting him so much even with 18 years of age.”