Liverpool midfielders Joe Cole and Lucas Leiva were impressed by Andy Carroll's contribution in defeat at Braga.
Although Liverpool succumbed to a 1-0 defeat in the Europa League last 16 meeting at the Estadio AXA, Carroll's impact after coming on as a second-half substitute was cause for great optimism ahead of next week's second leg at Anfield.
Cole told Liverpoolfc.tv: "He did well. It was really good to get to use him and he's going to be a really big player for the club.
"The fans are going to love his all-action style and it was great to see him."
Lucas added: "We know he has been out for a few months and will come back slowly.
"We don't want to put a lot of pressure on him now because it would be unfair, but he gives us another option.
"He can win it in the air, hold the ball up and give all of the team a chance to go forward and try to create chances. He was really good and we are happy."
