Jurgen Klopp says he’s delighted by the news that Stefan Bajcetic has signed a new contract with Liverpool.
The 18-year-old was rewarded for his recent breakthrough in the Reds’ first team squad with a shiny new deal yesterday. And speaking in his pre-Brighton press conference today, Klopp gave his reaction.
“We were pretty careful with him [Bajcetic] because of his age, these kinds of things, but he showed that he is ready. For us that is very helpful in the situation, a lot of his natural skills is something we didn’t show often enough in recent games,” said the manager.
“The aggression – but good aggression, not that he kicks players but he makes the last step into challenges. He’s a good footballer on top of that which is important in the centre of the park.
“So, really happy, really pleased that he signed his new contract. He deserves it as well and I think he’s really happy about it.”
Having now become a genuine option for Klopp, it will be interesting to see what the rest of the season holds for Bajcetic.
Bajcetic cuts through the gloom
In the midst of a difficult season for Liverpool, Bajcetic has been a real shining light. His emergence could be a really big moment for the club.
At a time when his midfield is under intense scrutiny, Klopp has essentially been gifted a new player. And the teenager appears to be in it for the long-haul.
As his display against Chelsea last weekend showed, Bajcetic is ready to ease the pressure on the ragged looking Fabinho.
Hopefully he’s only going to get better, too. If his development carries on at its current pace, the former Celta Vigo youngster could save Liverpool millions in the market this summer and beyond.
That may not be a popular decision amongst the fan base. But as the club look to put aside a nine-figure sum for Jude Bellingham, it shouldn’t be sniffed at.
With another game coming up this weekend, whether or not Bajcetic is given the nod will be an insight into where he currently is. Start for a third match in a row, and perhaps he can now be considered a first choice for Klopp. Barely eighteen, and so much more to come. How exciting.
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