It was a record breaking night for Liverpool’s youngsters. Harvey Elliott became Liverpool’s youngest ever competitive starter whilst Ki-Jana Hoever became the Reds’ youngest ever non British scorer and their 4th youngest scorer overall. Jürgen Klopp’s side were in total control as they swept aside MK Dons 2-0 in the League Cup 3rd round. The competition has long been a proving ground for young talents and they certainly stepped up to the plate last night.
Twitter reacts to the Ki-Jana Hoever goal. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Ki-Jana Hoever was having a decent game for Liverpool before his towering header in the 69th minute doubled the visitors’ advantage. He had proven confident with his range of passing but not always accurate with it. Defensively he made some excellent recoveries but was also caught napping or too casual on occasions. Overall, his display had been extremely encouraging if definitely brimming with naivety.
The Ki-Jana Hoever goal that set his performance apart and highlighted his natural talent. He lept well above his defender at the back post to thump home James Milner’s hanging cross. The goal showcased natural athleticism as well as an excellent reading for the game and a hunger to get into goalscoring positions.
Twitter has reacted to the 17 year old Dutchman’s goalscoring game.
One fan believed that the excellent goal came during a sub par performance but conceded that the youngster definitely has a bright future.
Great finish from Hoever. Hasn’t been at his best today but the 17 year old is an incredible talent.
— keith costigan (@KeithCostigan) September 25, 2019
The young star’s eagerness to impress was impressive in of itself to this supporter.
Hoever was incredible btw. His technique on the ball is incredible. Spraying those long balls and dribbling. His stamina as well he was always bursting down that wing. Mad talent that guy #MKDvLIV
— Irvin_ (@LfcOkx) September 25, 2019
Another Kopite was overjoyed for the young lad to enjoy his special moment.
What a moment for Hoever!
— Joel Rabinowitz (@joel_archie) September 25, 2019
Reds fans were calling for Hoever and Elliott to be given a shot at the first team after their incredibly impressive displays.
Elliot and Hoever slamming the door down to Klopp in the cup while Lallana and Lovren drop mares against cannon fodder. It’s time to give these lads pathways into the first team. Both look absolute talents and made “first teamers” look bang average
— Jez (@YourMateJez) September 26, 2019
And of course, there were those seeking to make some damning false equivalences.
Kean this season
6 appearances
O goals
1 assistKi jana hoever this season
1 appearance
1 goal
0 assits
One of them costs 35 mill and is a striker. Guess who pic.twitter.com/mQ7b25BRsy— bobbydazzler (@louiejohnson05) September 25, 2019
Goals this season;
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 0
Ki-Jana Hoever – 1I’ll let you come to your own conclusion, but I know who I’m having.
— Kyle (@SixTimesLFC) September 25, 2019