By Alan Hutton

2nd Dec, 2021 | 9:30am

Pundit amazed by 'brilliant' Jota transformation at Liverpool after playing against him at Wolves

Alan Hutton has been blown away by Diogo Jota’s performances for Liverpool after Wednesday’s 4-1 win over Everton.

The former Villa defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old has taken his game to the “next level”, having faced up against him during the forward’s time at Wolves.

Jota scored his ninth goal of the season in all competitions as Liverpool ran out comfortable winners at Goodison Park on Wednesday (1 December).

Hutton insisted he could see the versatile forward was a “brilliant footballer” when at Molineux.

However, he suggested Jurgen Klopp has helped the Portugal international kick on in his career.

Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He’s a brilliant footballer. Obviously, I played against him at Wolves and you could see it.

“But he’s actually taken his game to the next level moving to Liverpool. There were probably a couple of eyebrows raised when he did move but he’s taken on the challenge.

“Klopp’s made him a better player and he’s lightened the load for Salah, Firmino, Mane. He’s taken a little bit of pressure off them with his contribution.

“He’s been in excellent form, as have Liverpool in general.”

Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in the summer of 2020.

He scored 13 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions during his first season at Anfield.

Roberto Firmino’s injury problems means Jota has enjoyed an extended run in the side.

He has made a total of 17 appearances this season, 14 of which have come in the starting XI.

He is only one Premier League goal away from matching his record from last season.

In other news, pundit claims Liverpool could tie up two major contract deals in one day.