Luis Diaz: Pundit issues ‘priceless’ claim after noticing what new signing did before Liverpool debut
Paul Robinson has heaped praise on Liverpool vice-captain James Milner for his “priceless” leadership skills before Luis Diaz’s debut.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Spurs and Leeds United goalkeeper said the 36-year-old is like “a coach in the dressing room” at Anfield.
According to The Athletic (7 February), Milner ensured new signing Luis Diaz felt part of the group while on debut against Cardiff City on Sunday.
Milner is said to have “laughed and motioned towards the newcomer” as Liverpool warmed up ahead of their 3-1 win at Anfield.
Diaz grabbed his first assist for the Reds in a victory which sets up a fifth round clash against Norwich City on 2 March.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his thoughts on Milner’s leadership skills, Robinson said: “Players like James Milner are priceless.
“He’s so good to have around the dressing room. Milner is a coach in the dressing room if you like.
“Not for one minute are they the manager’s eyes and ears but they talk about the right things, set the right standards and integrate players like Diaz into the team. That is why a player like James Milner is so important with what he did before Diaz’s debut.
“Diaz is a top player and I think he’ll make a real difference once he’s settled.”
The Reds signed Diaz in a £49million deal from FC Porto on deadline day.
The winger put pen to paper on a five-and-a-half-year contract on Merseyside.
In other news, an ex-FIFA official has claimed a referee ‘manipulated his position’ as controversial Liverpool footage analysed.