Marco Asensio will be heading back to Spain feeling disappointed following the nation’s surprise last-16 exit at the World Cup, but Liverpool should be feeling pleasantly content.

If the Merseyside outfit have an interest in the Real Madrid midfielder, then they now have a chance to get a deal done.

Ever since the Reds’ deal for Lyon playmaker Nabil Fekir collapsed, numerous alternatives have been touted in the media.

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Asensio did not have a regular place in Madrid’s lineup last season, but on Saturday he was given the nod to start ahead of Spain legend Andres Iniesta for La Roja in their knockout game against Russia.

The midfielder may not have had a huge influence on the pitch as Spain ended up getting booted out on penalties after the match ended 1-1 after extra-time, but he showed glimpses of what he can do.

Asensio started on the right side of a midfield three, with Diego Costa leading the line up front, and as you would expect from the national side, passing was a priority.

The Madrid man showed various aspects of his game as he did not shy away from a tackle, but he also tried to make things happen out wide.

Only Isco produced more crosses (9) into the danger area than Asensio, who also mustered a shot on goal.

It was not to be for the 22-year-old, but he showed the type of skill that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp could help hone and perfect at Anfield.

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