Former Liverpool player John Aldridge has urged Jurgen Klopp to start teenage attacker Ben Doak this week against LASK.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, the ex-Anfield hero pleaded for the Scottish youth international to be named in the starting XI, with Doak arguably Liverpool’s most exciting prospect.
Rated by Liverpool staff to become a ‘special’ player, the winger has impressed for both club and country already this season, with Doak expected to feature heavily for Liverpool in the UEFA Europa League.
And this week’s opener in Austria against LASK could be a dream match to hand Doak his first start for Liverpool, with the attacker a prospect who could flourish in the competition.
Many fans are eager to see the 17-year-old start, and Aldridge is one of them, with the pundit saying: “It’s not up for me to say who, only the manager knows who needs time.
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“But personally I’d be excited to see young Stefan Bajcetic coming back from injury, Quansah did well at the weekend, Elliott too, and it is perfect for Doak. I’d like to see Ben Doak play.”
Klopp has to start Doak for Liverpool against LASK
Europa League fixtures will offer Klopp the chance to rest key figures for Premier League games whilst also giving youngsters and fringe players the chance to impress in Europe.
And Doak should arguably be the first name considered by the Liverpool boss ahead of this week’s trip to LASK, with the Scottish wonderkid ready for a real shot in the senior team.
Indeed, Doak has proven enough this season to warrant a place in the starting XI, with the forward ideal to replace Mohamed Salah ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash against West Ham.