Jurgen Klopp says he could see how delighted Liverpool’s newest debutant Ben Doak was when joining the club in the summer.
Doak came on for a lively 16-minute cameo during last night’s penalty shootout win over Derby County. And speaking to the press via liverpoolfc.com, Klopp was asked for his thoughts on the 16-year-old’s display.
“That’s Ben. His instructions were easy: do what you do all the time. He is really a lively boy, a smart player, good dribbler, fast, can use both legs. He’s good. It was nice to watch, really nice to watch – him coming in and immediately a lot of things are obviously natural to him, which is really helpful,” enthused the Reds boss.
Recalling the moment Doak arrived at Liverpool from Celtic, Klopp added a word for the young man’s family.
“I am pretty sure his family was here tonight. I can remember when I saw the family at the AXA when we signed the boy, how excited everybody was. Now having this night, it’s the next step, it’s cool. He showed up, obviously,” he said.
Doak tops off rapid rise at Liverpool
What can you say about Doak? For those paying attention to the academy, it will have been no surprise at all to see him feature last night.
But that really shouldn’t be taken for granted. Yes, the Scottish youngster had played senior football before – for Celtic last season – but he began life at Liverpool in the U18s.
That was barely three months ago. Since then, the teenager has had a rapid rise through the age groups.
Not only has he been scoring with regularity, but his all-round game has also been really catching the eye. Upon coming on last night, he instantly showed what he’s all about.
In a game where Liverpool were looking rather too one-paced, Doak was able to change that. He showed the Derby defence a clean set of heels on numerous occasions in the short time he was on the pitch.
Fans, and coaches, must be careful not to expect too much of the Scot too soon. But all the early signs suggest that Liverpool have a real prospect on their hands.
With Klopp, Doak has exactly the right coach to aid his development. The German won’t rush his progress. If he continues to show up like he did last night though, he will get chances.
Hugely exciting. Congratulations on your debut, Ben!
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