Despite Wolverhampton Wanderers losing 2-1 to Liverpool on Thursday, a number of players impressed at Molineux. Ruben Neves was one of them and fans hailed his performance on social media.
The 22-year-old had a difficult task trying to stifle Georginio Wijnaldum, Jordan Henderson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, but he shone on the night and was duly praised.
Neves made the most passes among Wolves midfielders, turned over possession six times, put crosses into the box and drove with the ball from deep to turn defence into attack.
Really enjoyed the Neves Henderson midfield battle. Thought they were both superb. Henderson is another victim of being English. Massively under appreciated by most. With Joao having a slightly off game Neves stepped up and delivered #WOLLIV #wwfc
— Martin Evans (@martevans_no1) January 23, 2020
Toughest test of the season for Liverpool last night but that shows just how far #wwfc have come.
We were excellent second half, Traore was unplayable, Neves & Neto pulled the strings.
Atmosphere from all four sides of the ground was electric ⚡️
— Luke Shelley (@LukeShelley1) January 24, 2020
https://twitter.com/JustinL1977_/status/1220620703927541761?s=20
Thought he had one of his best games for a long time. This team can compete with anybody on there day
— Moff (@corbylad) January 24, 2020
Lots of high marks again. Patricio with three excellent saves, Neves top class, Adama & Jimenez normal and Neto keeps getting better! #wwfc https://t.co/tebDifc2Ti
— Alex Dicken (@alexedicken) January 23, 2020
Against Liverpool, the Portuguese international played for 90 minutes, made 75 touches, won one aerial duel, created one chance, completed 77.2% of his 57 passes, whipped in three crosses, made three successful dribbles, drew one foul, made three tackles and made three interceptions.
Neves has been a regular for Wolves this season, making 36 appearances in all competitions, scoring and creating five goals. He’s played in every Premier League and FA Cup game under Nuno Espirito Santo and could find himself linked with European giants over the summer. Neves’ impressive, all-action display against the Premier League leaders could garner attention.