Former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Erik Thorstvedt has conceded that he has been left surprised by Xherdan Shaqiri’s performance at Liverpool.
Liverpool signed the winger from Stoke City last summer and in some quarters question marks were raised over the move for a player who did not pull up trees in the Potteries.
The winger found it hard to get into the line-up initially but has gradually carved out a niche for himself in the Liverpool squad in recent months.
Thorstvedt admits that he was surprised by Liverpool’s decision to sign him as there was no obvious place for him in the team and Shaqiri’s ego might not have accepted a squad role.
The former Premier League goalkeeper told Norwegian broadcaster TV2: “I was one of those who thought what they would really do with him? They had a lot of players and where would he fit in? He has a pretty big ego.
“Even though he didn’t cost much, there is always the wage packet that comes with it.
“I was surprised.”
However, the former Spurs goalkeeper has been impressed by Shaqiri’s performances at Liverpool and feels Jurgen Klopp deserves credit for fitting the Swiss into his plans.
“He has done very well. He has performed very well.
"He always plays with energy and is always switched on.
“He on the right way.
“Klopp deserves credit as he has managed to fit him in.”
The 27-year-old has scored three goals and provided three assists in 16 appearances for Liverpool this season.
