Naby Keita could still be the key to Liverpool’s title winning season

Naby Keita hasn’t exactly lived up to the high expectations Liverpool fans had for him this season. In truth, he’s failed to really establish himself in the side for the first two thirds of the campaign.

Part of this stuttering start is due to bad luck, while other factors more within Keita’s control have also played their part.

The former FB Leipzig midfielder knew he was heading to Anfield a full year prior to his eventual arrival. For this reason, it is disappointing that he showed up having made no attempt to learn the language. This is one of the reason’s he struggled to hit the ground running.

Throw in a couple of injuries, in addition to having to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League, and it’s easy to see why it didn’t exactly click straight away.

It should be noted that this is not something unique solely to Keita. A large number of Jurgen Klopp’s signings take time to adapt to the system and requirements before hitting their stride.

Take Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for example. Prior to hitting form, the midfielder spent several months on the bench and drawing the criticism of supporters. By the time of his injury in the Champions League semi-final, he was pivotal to Liverpool’s tactics.

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It is this elongated adaptation period that should have fans still excited about the prospect of Keita this season. Now would be the perfect time for him to hit some form, and there are signs this is about to happen.

Speaking after the Bournemouth game to official website, Liverpoolfc.com, Klopp was quick to highlight that he thinks things are starting to come together for the Guinean:

“If you fall into a little hole you have to make sure you get out by yourself. That’s what he did in the second half at West Ham and it was clear this game would be the next step for him.

“It was really nice to see that game and see how the people appreciate it. He is in a lot of situations, passing these little balls through a really tight midfield. It’s just good. And there’s a lot more to come. That was a good one.”

With the title challenge reaching a critical stage, and the return of the Champions League upon us, now would be the perfect time for Keita to string together the types of performances we were all hoping for from day one.

There is certainly enough promise there in glimpses to show that he could be a real difference maker over the next few months. If a couple of moments start to come together and things go his way, he could be a real asset in the middle of the park.

Having played relatively little so far this season, and not being a major part of Liverpool’s dominating performances, Keita still boasts the element of surprise.

Few sides will have done extensive research on what to expect from him during a game, and this could work to Liverpool’s benefit. Expect at least a few moments from him that could change a game in the Reds favor.

Come on, Naby – everyone’s behind you!