Jurgen Klopp hailed the ‘world-class’ contribution of Diogo Jota as Liverpool booked a date with Chelsea at Wembley.

Jota rose to the challenge in the absence of Mo Salah and Sadio Mane and scored both goals in a 2-0 aggregate win against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi final.

‘Wow, he really is on fire,’ beamed Klopp. ‘We were convinced when he arrived at the club he would help us massively. His mentality and his quality were the reasons we signed him.

‘The way he played at Wolves, the runs he made, the defending he had to do but he was always able to produce really exciting stuff.

‘Since he is here he has made another step, he has turned into a really world-class striker. He didn’t just step up tonight.

‘Yes he scored two goals, but he is really important. His mix of skills is really exciting and he’s in good shape. Long may it continue.’

Liverpool reach their first League Cup final since Klopp’s first season at the club when they were beaten on penalties at Wembley by Manchester City.

‘The mood in the dressing room is great, over the moon,’ said the German, who also praised Trent Alexander Arnold for his assist. ‘It’s a difficult game for us and a difficult time. What the boys did tonight against this strong arsenal side was brilliant.

‘The crowd was lively and we calmed it down and played good football. We scored to wonderful goals. The first goal was super play. But the second goal … I don’t think a lot of people in the stadium saw him in that position, but Trent saw him. Outstanding. He has turned into a world-class striker.’