In the absence of both Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk, the Brazil international featured in the heart of defence alongside Joe Gomez against AFC Ajax on Wednesday.
He was key to the Reds securing a clean sheet as they won the Champions League Group D opener 1-0, too, not least with a crucial goalline clearance during the first half.
Speaking after the 1-0 victory in Amsterdam, Fabinho explained the differences to his individual approach when he moves from midfield to the backline.
“Tactically, I have to be always ready for the long balls and try to organise the team,” the No.