Aberdeen manager Jim Goodwin has insisted that he’s ‘delighted’ with the performances of Liverpool loanee Leighton Clarkson.
There had been some recent suggestions that Liverpool were looking to bring Clarkson back to Anfield early. But in quotes from The Scotsman, Goodwin has dismissed such claims.
“Liverpool are delighted and are not looking to bring him back,” the manager said. “We have had constant dialogue up until last week explaining to Liverpool that we are delighted with what Leighton is doing right now.”
“We are really pleased with the progress he is making and Liverpool have kept really close tabs on him. They are delighted with his continued development, playing week in week out in the Scottish Premiership.”
Goodwin went as far as saying that the 21-year-old has even been one of his best players of the campaign.
“He has been one of our better, more consistent players of the season,” he explained. “Leighton gives us that little creativity in the middle of the pitch. He is growing and growing from strength to strength I believe. Liverpool are delighted and are not looking to bring him back.”
Clarkson showing what he can do
It was a surprise to read last week that Liverpool may be about to cancel Clarkson’s loan in Scotland.
The midfielder has been really impressive right from the get-go at Aberdeen. There seems little sense in bringing him back to feature in the youth teams.
Yes, we all know Liverpool’s need for midfield additions right now. But Clarkson shouldn’t be considered a remedy for that. He’s a decent player but he isn’t better than anything Jurgen Klopp currently has.
Instead, it seems wise to let him continue his development in Scotland. Once the youngster returns in the summer, it’ll then be time to re-assess his Anfield career.
In all likelihood those discussions will lead to another loan or a permanent exit. Turning twenty-two this year, Clarkson needs to be playing regularly.
He isn’t going to get that at Liverpool. But as he’s showing North of the border, he is capable of doing so elsewhere.