He can also slot into the centre-back position, as proven away at Brighton earlier this season.
And McManaman who was speaking before Liverpool’s Champions League quarter-final tie with Porto, thinks Fabinho has adapted to English football in impressive fashion.
“They took Fabinho in and he took time to settle but he has become a really important member of the team,” he said.
“He breaks up play, he’s great on the counter attack which suits Liverpool because they duo it with such speed.
Fabinho is quickly becoming one of Liverpool's most important player (Image: GETTY )
Fabinho has been brilliant for Liverpool this season (Image: GETTY )
“He’ll get better as well, Jurgen Klopp has an eye on the midfielders because of ageing players like Milner.
“Wijnaldum is in good form, they bought Keita for the future, but Fabinho has adapted really well to the Premier League.”
Owen, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2001 when he played for Liverpool, believes Fabinho can do it all as a midfield player.
“He can take a risk and step into midfield but he can also see a pass,” the former striker said.
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