Liverpool great Ian Rush has rejected criticism of Naby Keita after their Champions League win against Atletico Madrid.

Didi Hamann criticised Keita for being at fault for both of Atletico's goals and questioned his defensive capabilities despite him scoring a superb volley to put Liverpool 2-0 ahead.

But former Liverpool striker Rush has launched a staunch defence of Keita, insisting he still needs more time to adapt.

"There was a lot made of Naby Keita's performance against Atletico," Rush told Gambling.com.

"We saw the best and worst of the Guinean midfielder but people forget he's still pretty inexperienced.

"He scored a fantastic goal but then Atletico's two goals came after he was beaten too easily in the build-up. I reckon Jurgen must have realised he needed more experience in this game and that's why we saw Fabinho come on at half-time.

"I put it down to a lack of experience from Keita – I see him as a player with a lot to learn and a lot to improve on. Fabinho brought a lot more to the team once he came on."