Jurgen Klopp singled out Adrian as his Anfield hero after his Reds found another incredible way to maintain their winning run.
Many observers condemned the sub keeper after he comically let in the free kick awarded after Alisson handled outside the box and was dismissed.
But the Liverpool manager had a very different view. He was upset referee Martin Atkinson allowed a quick set piece to be taken against a keeper who had come on cold and was still adjusting.
Klopp said: “My man of the match today is Adrian, coming on in a game like this and having that knock of the free-kick.
“I want to read something about that situation. It is incredible. An ice cold keeper getting his gloves ready and then (mimes whistle) – that is our life.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“Then being in the game to make two saves. He saved our lives and I am happy for him he can play the derby.”
Klopp had been through the wringer after an emotional game where his team again dug incredibly deep to cling on with 10 men.
And he believes the effort Liverpool put in is reflected in their position at the top of the Premier League, with the team possessing so much character they can find a variety of ways to win.
(Image: PA)
Despite looking exhausted himself, he said: “It was an intense game and ice cold out there. I am not drained, I am just normal level exhausted after the game.
“We try everything to keep the boys fresh with the right food and treatment to go again on Wednesday. Today it was enough and it is only worth it and valuable when you are ‘done’ after the game.
“If you think you could play another one then something was wrong. There are different ways to control a game. There are different ways to finish a game off. A couple of them we showed already. A couple more we will show.”
