Shaqiri unshackled 'n' unleashed

Swiss maestro exceeding expectations to become key player in Reds' title tilt

WOLVERHAMPTON, England - Xherdan Shaqiri proved his quality to Liverpool fans almost as soon as he arrived in July but it is only now that he is starting to suggest he can be a key figure in the Reds' Premier League title bid.

Shaqiri's two goals as a substitute on Sunday secured a 3-1 victory over Manchester United that took his team back to the top of the standings. He hopes his reward will be a return to the starting lineup away to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday.

The Switzerland international was arguably fortunate to get a move to Anfield five months ago, having been part of a relegated Stoke City side, even though he finished as the Potters' leading Premier League scorer with eight goals.

There were questions too over whether he had the necessary work ethic for Liverpool's demanding manager Jurgen Klopp. Answering those questions has taken time, but he is getting there, as Klopp has acknowledged.

"Shaq needs time, it's normal," Klopp said. "He knows that he has so much potential still to improve. But of course he's the guy for decisive moments, that's how it is, and we have to make sure that it stays like this."

Shaqiri, 27, announced himself in spectacular style, scoring with an overhead kick in a preseason triumph over United in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in July, days before stating in an interview that he felt his new club "can win everything in the world".

If that statement seemed hubristic, it was at least made from a position of knowledge as to what it takes to be successful-Shaqiri was part of the Bayern Munich squad that won back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2013 and 2014.