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 labelled as the club’s ‘best player’ by Mohamed Salah since the teenager broke into the first team.

The 18-year-old midfielder put in a man-of-the-match display during the Reds’ 2-0 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 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.

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, as he told BBC Sport: “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.”