Hansen Champions ‘Exceptional’ Jose Enrique

Liverpool legend Alan Hansen has praised the form of Jose Enrique since the Spaniard's arrival at Anfield in the summer.

The former Newcastle United star cost just £5.5 million and unlike some of Liverpool's other new signings the talented fullback has cut a hugely impressive figure at Anfield this season.

The 25-year-old has been an almost every present for Liverpool this season and Hansen believes he has emerged as one of the Premier League's most consistent defenders.

"(Luis) Enrique has really impressed me since moving to Liverpool from Newcastle at the start of the season." The former Anfield stalwart told the Daily Telegraph.

"I always knew he was a good player, but he has been exceptional at Anfield."

Where previously Chelsea's Ashley Cole and Manchester United's Patrice Evra are usually championed as the Premier League's best left-backs, Hansen believes Liverpool's current incumbent can perhaps boast to be the division's best on current form.

"In truth, it has not been a great year for left-backs." The former Liverpool defender continued. "There are no real contenders at Arsenal, Spurs or Manchester City and both Patrice Evra and Ashley Cole have struggled for Manchester United and Chelsea respectively.

"Enrique has been consistent, however, and the highest praise you can pay him is that he looks as though he has been at Liverpool forever with his awareness on the ball significantly improving."

Meanwhile, Enrique believes his form for Liverpool since his arrival at Anfield suggests he should be considered for the Spanish national side.

The Liverpool defender told the Sun: "I deserve a chance - just for the fact that I've managed to play for a team like Liverpool. They should be thinking of me."