Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp hailed Nathaniel Phillips' performance for victory over West Ham.
Klopp was delighted with his debutant on the day.
The manager said, "The counter-press of the two centre-halves was exceptional.
"Nat Phillips, wow. I couldn't be more happy. I asked him before the game if he was nervous.
"I told him I would be. He was awake from the first second, played his stuff and had a good game."
Klopp continued: "He's a brilliant guy, smart guy, intelligent, everything. He's not easy on the eye, he's not Messi but who cares? In the air, he's a monster! He was incredible.
"For the first game, I think everyone can imagine how nervy that must be after a long wait. It's a crazy story, three years ago he was on his way to America to go to college. Twelve Championship teams wanted him and to me it was clear he was going, and I was fine with that - and it didn't work out for whatever reason, and it's great! Tonight he was spot on, helped the team incredibly."
