Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was spotted watching on as the Reds’ U21’s side lost 2-0 to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League 2 yesterday afternoon.
According to the Liverpool Echo, the first-team boss supposedly looked like he was on a scouting mission, with various injuries currently plaguing in the senior squad.
With a surprise inclusion in the starting XI, Curtis Jones started for Barry Lewtas’ side in midfield.
The 21-year-old has been largely absent this season due to a bone injury, and the Scouser even missed Liverpool’s FA Cup clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers the day before on Saturday.
Likely playing for the U21’s as a means of gaining fitness, Klopp reportedly kept a close eye on Jones, as he looks to integrate him back into the first-team.
Klopp closely watching Jones for the U21’s
With big issues in the midfield this season, Klopp needs to change something in the middle of the park.
Whilst Thiago Alcantara has largely been the sole contributor both offensively and defensively, the Reds have struggled with their other two players in the middle.
Therefore, Klopp will have been monitoring Jones to see how he is doing, and whether he is ready to play regular minutes again in the senior team.
The Reds boss has been full of praise for the 21-year-old in the past, having claimed he is an ‘incredible’ player.
However, a lack of physicality and desire to win the ball has been an issue for the Merseyside outfit in recent matches.
Therefore, playing the more attacking-oriented player in Jones may not be Klopp’s best idea.
Although, he does need to do something, and he should start with bringing in midfield additions this month.
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