The kids are alright! The boss has heavily suggested that some of the younger players in the Liverpool squad will feature in the FIFA Club World Cup this month.
Jurgen Klopp made the comments during his pre-match press conference, ahead of the Premier League fixture with Bournemouth away from home.
Liverpool play Aston Villa in the League Cup within 24 hours of playing their opening FWCW game in Qatar – so it’s interesting to see who the boss is planning on taking.
Rhian Brewster, Curtis Jones and Neco Williams are coming along, meaning they won’t be available for Neil Critchley’s makeshift team of kids who have to face Aston Villa’s first-team.
Liverpool FIFA Club World Cup squad: Alisson, Van Dijk, Wijnaldum, Lovren, Milner, Keita, Firmino, Mane, Salah, Gomez, Adrian, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Lallana, Lonergan, Shaqiri, Brewster, Robertson, Origi, Jones, Alexander-Arnold, Elliott, Williams.
“We had to do it like this. I think it’s a really nice opportunity for the younger players to face it,” Klopp is quoted as saying by This is Anfield.
“I know everybody says there’s no chance, but football is a wonderful game and if you grow above yourself, making the next step, enjoying the challenge…
“I would love to be part of that game, to be honest, and I hope all the boys and Critch and the coaching staff enjoy it as well.
“Whatever happens, I’m responsible even for that game, not being there. So they have no pressure, they should just fight for each inch on the pitch and enjoy themselves.”
We’re glad Liverpool are taking the competition seriously. Flamengo, should they meet us in the final, are an excellent side and will cause problems.
Liverpool are the heavy favourites – and the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane and Virgil van Dijk – along with the rest of our world-class lineup – will want the prestige of the badge on the shoulder of our kit that comes with being confirmed as the best team on the planet.