Danny Murphy has explained why Luis Diaz, who he believes is often flying "under the radar", deserves more recognition for his significant contributions to Liverpool’s success.

Liverpool increased its lead at the top of the Premier League to 13 points after a dominant performance against Newcastle United, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring the opener. Arne Slot, watching from the stands, saw his team control the game, while on the pitch Mohamed Salah assisted Alexis Mac Allister, to double the Reds advantage.

While it was Szoboszlai who stole the headlines for his outstanding performance, the former Liverpool midfielder believes Diaz also deserves recognition for his display against Eddie Howe's side.

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With Cody Gakpo still not fully fit for 90 minutes, Slot opted to start Diaz on the left flank. His performance earned wide praise from Reds fans, a sentiment which was echoed by Murphy stating that the Colombian's impact is becoming somewhat underrated at Anfield.

Speaking on Match of the Day, Murphy said: “I’ve picked out Diaz because I think he’s gone under the radar a little bit with all the plaudits a lot of the players are getting.

“He’s a got a wonderful work ethic and attitude to the game wherever he’s asked to play. A lot of the time this season he’s been asked to play that centre-forward role. He was more out wide because Jota played tonight and the first real impact he made was that beautiful pick out for Szoboszlai to relax everyone and then his confidence was up and he was beating people.

“Livramento’s a good full-back, it’s not an easy thing to do, but he was sharp. Loves running in behind without the ball, which we don’t see enough players do in my opinion. His close control, travelling up the pitch with the ball on counters when there’s space to break into, makes the right choices and he just looked back to his best.

“He epitomizes everything good about this Liverpool team. The quality is there, obviously, but that work ethic that the manager is talking about, he sets the tone so many times. Always does his defensive work, gets back in, nicks the ball off people they don’t see him coming, he’s strong as well.”

Despite rumors linking Diaz with a potential Liverpool exit, the 28-year-old has remained focused, with his performance against Newcastle being another standout.

Playing on the left wing rather than as a striker, Murphy believes Diaz is more effective in that role. Praising the Colombian's contributions, Murphy even compared him to former Liverpool winger Sadio Mane.

“For me, although he does a job centrally I think he always looks more comfortable on the left. Obviously with Gakpo having such a great season Slot’s been trying to fit them both in.” added Murphy.