Liverpool defender Conor Bradley says Dominik Szoboszlai’s freekicks remind him of former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 20-year-old was speaking to the Premier League YouTube channel when he was asked which of his teammates was the best free-kick taker. Bradley named Szoboszlai ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold and praised his technique:

“I think Dom. Between him and Trent [Alexander-Arnold]. But just the way Dom hits the ball, I’ve never seen before. It’s a bit like Ronaldo-esque where it just knuckleballs.”

Szoboszlai hasn’t taken that many freekicks since arriving at Anfield, mainly due to Trent pulling rank when the vice-captain has been fit and available.

Based on Bradley’s comments, though, it seems the Hungarian international should be given the chance to take them more often.

Szoboszlai has had a great first season for the Reds

Many raised an eyebrow when the club decided to trigger the midfielder’s €70m (£60m) release clause in the summer. Even sporting director Jorg Schmadtke admitted he wasn’t sure he was worth the money.

However, Szoboszlai has already begun to pay back some of the fee, having scored 7 goals and provided 5 assists in 33 appearances. Pundits, such as Paul Merson, have been very complimentary when talking about how he has performed during his first year in English football.

Liverpool fans will be hoping he stays clear of injury

The 23-year-old has missed 12 matches this campaign due to a hamstring problem he picked up at the start of the year. Considering the club’s poor record with injury-prone players (especially in midfield), supporters will be keeping their fingers crossed that he doesn’t spend any further lengthy spells on the sidelines.

Szoboszlai possesses so much talent, with his pace, dribbling ability and ball striking making him a superb all-round package, and there is definitely scope for him to improve even further in the future.