Liverpool fans will have a trio of Serbian players, amongst others, to thank for playing a key role in getting new boy Marko Grujić to sign for the club.
The midfielder joined the Merseysiders from Red Star Belgrade in January before returning to the club on loan until the end of the season. According to the Liverpool Echo, Grujić sought advice from Premier League stars Nemanja Matič, Aleksander Kolarov and Liverpool teammate Lazar Markovič, before making the decision to move to England.
“When I first heard Liverpool wanted me, I called Nemanja, Lazar (Markovic) and Aleksandar Kolarov and they all told me ‘you need to sign for them.” He said.
“Three different players all saying the same things – two who play for big rivals – it shows that they know what Liverpool means in European football.”
The 20-year-old was far from a household name when he emerged as the second signing of manager Jürgen Klopp’s reign as Reds boss, however, in his homeland of Serbia he was – and still is – highly thought of. The process of attaining a work-permit meant that fans and experts would have to wait a while longer to see him in action. When he finally made his debut against Fleetwood Town, Grujić showed just why he is considered ‘the Serbian Steven Gerrard’, imposing authority in midfield and highlighting his class in attack with a debut goal.
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The former Red Star Belgrade man has since added another goal against Huddersfield Town, in what has so far been an unbeaten run of pre-season games for his new side. The Reds’ preparations for the new season have continued with a tour of the United States, which has so far seen them slump to their first pre-season defeat, a 1-0 loss at the hands of rivals Chelsea. Before that match, Grujić explained how he’s been enjoying preparing for the season ahead, in what is his first time in America.
“It’s my first time here in America, and everything has been nice,” the midfielder said.
“We have a good pitch, a good hotel and good weather so we can prepare well for the Premier League.”
With attributes such as strength, height and an eye for goal in his locker, Grujić will be one of the players challenging for a place in midfield next season. So far, he’s done well and Reds fans will be hope he can only get better. Although, there are concerns that the Serbian might be unavailable after appearing to lose consciousness at the Rose Bowl Arena.
According to the Daily Star, Grujić is in hospital after the collision with Bertrand Traore. Klopp was full of sympathy for the young lad:
“The biggest problem for me is that Marko Grujic is in hospital. He can’t remember anything. That’s not too cool for a young boy in this situation.”
We at Rousing the Kop wish Marko a speedy and full recovery.