Jurgen Klopp gives verdict on Liverpool debutant

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp was left impressed with how Liverpool debutant Takumi Minamino played against Everton in the FA Cup at Anfield yesterday.

The Reds triggered Minamino’s £7.25 million release clause last month, which meant he officially joined the club from Salzburg on January 1.

The Merseyside derby was the first game Minamino was eligible to feature in as a Liverpool player, and with Klopp only having 12 senior players fit heading into the clash, the boss made wholesale changes.

Despite fielding a weakened team against Everton’s first XI, the Reds were 1-0 victors courtesy of a second-half strike by Curtis Jones. Minamino was obviously one of the inclusions into the side, and he left the German impressed.

Klopp told his post-match press conference: “Super, outstanding. Exactly the player we wanted, exactly the player we wished for.

“Your first game in a team you don’t know, if it’s a settled team it’s already difficult – this team we threw more or less on the pitch with two sessions together. And then showing this kind of game understanding, football skills are exceptional, attitude is outstanding, led the chasing pack so often in different situations, which I loved.

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 05: Djibril Sidibe of Everton is challenged by Takumi Minamino of Liverpool during the FA Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield on January 05, 2020 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

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“He didn’t look tired, but because we don’t know him that long we just wanted to save him a little bit, so took him off. It was a nice add-on to have Oxlade back, he looked pretty lively when he came on. He trained only one day, two days now, and that’s why he didn’t start. Super.”

What was impressive in regards to Minamino’s performance was his eagerness to give Klopp’s side energy without the ball.

Having watched the Japan international twice this season when he was playing for Salzburg against Liverpool in the Champions League, it was noticeable he has ability with the ball at his feet.

To play in Klopp’s side, however, you need more than that. Minamino showed he has plenty to offer, and he could be a perfect option in reserve to fellow forward Roberto Firmino.

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Source: anfieldhq.com