Jurgen Klopp says Luis Diaz’s debut against Leicester City was one of the best he’s ever seen.
Speaking in his pre-Burnley press conference today, the manager continued his praise of the new boy’s displays last night.
“It was probably one of the best games I’ve ever seen from a new player,” said Klopp via the Liverpool Echo.
That’s high praise when you think of the calibre of player that the manager has worked with over the years.
Just at Liverpool, he has overseen debuts for the likes of Mohamed Salah who scored on his debut against Watford in 2017, Sadio Mane who did the same against Arsenal in 2016 and Virgil Van Dijk who headed in a winner against Everton on his first game for Liverpool in 2018.
Diaz wasn’t able to add his name to the list of debut goalscorers for Liverpool. But the way he slotted into a team that he’s spent less than a week training with was pretty incredible.
This is a continuation of good feedback from Diaz’s debut. After the game last night Klopp said he was an “incredible talent with nice speed” via BBC Sport.
Not getting carried away
Klopp was quick to temper his praise with some realism though. Yes, it was a hugely encouraging debut from Diaz, but it’s important Liverpool don’t expect too much of him too soon.
“But it was only his first game,” continued Klopp.
“He has the skillset and character. We have to see how he adapts, there’s no rush. It was a good chance to start him with Sadio not here and Mo back from an intense tournament. Yes, Luis showed up.”
It’s an important point. After his performance last night, fans may expect Diaz to challenge Mane for his starting left-sided role.
But Mane has been playing that position for Liverpool for years. With the Senegalese still away, it was a good opportunity for Diaz to stake his claim. But Mane deservedly holds that shirt and it’s vital that Diaz is given the time to get to grips with it.
Nevertheless, the Colombian’s display just goes to show the strength in depth that Klopp now has available to him.
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