By Alex McLeish

11th May, 2022 | 5:30pm

Diogo Jota: Expert 'loved' what Liverpool star did in win v Aston Villa - 'inspirational'

Alex McLeish has heralded the “inspirational signing” of Diogo Jota after helping Liverpool to a 2-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday night.

The former Villa and Scotland boss, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, lauded the 25-year-old for his “assertive” presence and “speed” of play.

Jota played the full 90 minutes at Villa Park, starting on the left wing for Jurgen Klopp.

The Portuguese star’s place in the starting XI has been threatened by the arrival of Luis Diaz in January.

However, McLeish insisted Jota still has a big role to play for Klopp’s men.

“There are moments when the others are quiet and Diogo Jota comes to life,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.

“That’s the good mix Klopp has. If Klopp was to pick his out-and-out front three, Jota may be just behind Salah, Mane and Diaz.

“Last night, I loved what he did. He does things at speed. I know it didn’t quite come off for him in front of goal but he does things at speed.

“He’s assertive, he makes assertive passes, he can get out of tight situations by doing a skilful action.

“For me, he’s been an inspirational signing as well.”

Jota started alongside Sadio Mane and Luis Diaz in attack against Villa.

The former Wolves star has scored 21 goals and contributed eight assists in 51 appearances this season.

He has featured in all but three of the Reds’ league games this term, with 25 starts under his belt.

In other news, pundit claims Liverpool could copy Manchester City in transfer window to “rectify” squad issue.