Xabi Alonso: “I have loved watching Thiago Alcantara."

Thiago has now missed Liverpool's last eight matches with the knee problem sustained in the Merseyside derby. [Getty]

The Spanish midfield maestro has been able to make just two appearances for the Reds since his summer move from Bayern.

Xabi Alonso is convinced Liverpool's "fabulous" new midfielder Thiago Alcantara will be a success at Anfield.

The former Reds legend admits he loves watching his compatriot and 'great friend' play the beautiful game.

Spain international Thiago secured a summer move from Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich to Merseyside after helping the German club win the treble in the 2019-20 campaign.

Since joining Jurgen Klopp’s team, his career in the English top-flight has been blighted by an injury he suffered in the Merseyside derby last month.

The Spanish midfield maestro has only been able to make two appearances for Liverpool, missing the last eight games since he joined the Reds from Bayern, but reports suggest he is edging closer to full fitness.

However, Alonso has no doubt that the 29-year-old’s intelligence will be a huge advantage for Liverpool this season.

“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.”

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