I think his ability to support our high line, his anticipation, and ability to close down quickly could be vital tomorrow. If Utd try to play over us - either through the middle or into any gaps left by our full backs, then I couldn't think of anyone better than Alisson to spot those situations developing and cut out the danger. Even when he realises he can't get to the ball first, he never panics and his commanding of the box and closing of angles is just unreal - so many times he's won a 1-on-1 by making himself big and anticipating the strikers movement.
One thing that really stands out with Alisson is that in his time here, I can't remember him making many fingertip saves, or last-ditch scrambled clearances off the line, or being lobbed, or having a striker take it around him to score, or being caught out by a striker's guile. He knows exactly where to be and therefore doesn't need to dive full length to get to the ball, as he's already halfway there. He won't go to ground early, won't be fooled by a disguised feint, won't be bullied in the air by big strikers, and time and again just blocks crucial shots in crucial moments. Sometimes he makes what looks like a routine save which is actually down to his anticipation and positioning, where other keepers would be stretching to reach it or not even getting close.
He's not one to make saves for the cameras like De Gea, and I think his mere presence is now enough to make strikers second guess themselves when through on goal. Add in his his sublime distribution and telepathic understanding with our back four, and I have every faith he'll have Utd drawing blanks tomorrow.
