Liverpool (4-0) Red Star Belgrade: 5 Talking Points, UEFA Champions League 2018-19

#1 Xherdan Shaqiri is proving to be the X-factor for Liverpool this season

Shaqiri showing his worth for Jurgen Klopp's side

Liverpool's failure to land a creative midfielder in the summer transfer window sparked numerous debates whether or not they missed out on the final piece in the jigsaw. Xherdan Shaqiri could just be the midfielder Liverpool have missed since Oxlade Chamberlain got injured towards the end of last season.

In spite of been criticized for his poor attitude, Xherdan Shaqiri has gone all out to prove his doubters wrong with impressive displays against Southampton, Huddersfield and now, against Red Star.

Shaqiri played an instrumental role in Liverpool's opener as he provided a perfectly weighted through ball to Andy Robertson who in turn assisted Roberto Firmino. The former Stoke City midfielder also provided a beautiful assist for his side's second goal. Apart from this, he worked hard to regain possession and exploited the spaces left by Red Star's defense and midfield with his impressive passing range.

His performance earned him a well-deserved standing ovation from the Anfield faithful which was seen when he was taken off in the 68th minute. Shaqiri is a versatile player who can play in any position across the front three and can also operate from deeper positions when called upon.

Liverpool have desperately needed a game changer from the bench, an X-factor who can inject quality when called upon. They now have one in the form of Xherdan Shaqiri.