Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola reserved special praise for defender Ronald Araujo following the club’s 2-1 comeback win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last night.
The Merseyside giants started their European campaign with a victory over Diego Simeone’s side. Marcos Llorente scored his 5th Anfield goal to put Atletico ahead yesterday, but the Reds responded brilliantly to secure three points in their first league phase game.
Dominik Szoboszlai equalised prior to the interval before an early second-half winner through Alexis Mac Allister. The central midfield duo stepped up to the occasion, and the former was awarded the man of the match.
There were several other standout performers on the night. On-loan Barcelona star Araujo continued as the right-back against Atletico, and he produced an impressive all-round showing, capped with a first-half assist.
Speaking after the 2-1 victory, Iraola reserved special praise for the Uruguayan ace. In his post-match press conference, the manager said that he has been ‘very very good’ since he arrived and hailed his goal contribution for the equaliser.
He said via the club’s official website: “I think he’s been very, very good. The other day [against Ipswich Town] and he has been, I would say, even better today. I think he’s defending really well his side, but also sometimes because he’s a centre-back we underrate his offensive side.
“Today he gives a great assist to Dom Szoboszlai. He’s made a couple of very good serves from his position and I’m very happy with him. Very happy. He’s come with the willingness to show that he belongs to this level, and I hope we can keep him there because he’s in a lovely place.”
There were some question marks raised when Liverpool signed Araujo on loan from Barcelona with an option to buy, considering his injury record as well as struggles to establish himself as a starter for Barcelona last season.
Araujo was initially expected to play as a back-up behind Jeremy Jacquet for the right centre-back role, but he has gone on to become a regular starter at right-back ahead of Jeremie Frimpong, who has failed to impress thus far.
The 27-year-old had a relatively good outing against Atletico yesterday in the position. He completed 85 percent of his passes (33/39) for the Reds with 62 touches. He was good with his positioning and bagged a crucial assist.
Judging by recent performances, Araujo has definitely cemented his starting spot on the right side of the backline in the short term, and the onus is on him to continue his glowing form to become an undisputed starter in the coming months.
Liverpool will be back in Premier League action against Fulham at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.
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