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Jurgen Klopp looked delighted after youngsters Leighton Clarkson and Billy Koumetio made their debut in Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with FC Midtjylland in the Champions League.
Since the Reds had already confirmed the top spot in their group, Klopp took the opportunity to rotate his team and rest several key players.
Central midfielder Clarkson, 19, played the full 90 minutes in Denmark and did not seem to be overwhelmed by the occasion.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old French defender Koumetio replaced Fabinho at halftime to become Liverpool’s youngest player in the Champions League.
And speaking full time, Klopp seemed impressed by what he had seen from both rookies.
(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
“They will do it [learn]”, said.” We let them have the experience. It’s wonderful to have a first Champions League game, but a race is about how many.
“They are very skilled guys and they have a lot to learn. They helped us a lot. It was a great night for both of them. I am thankful that they are as good as they are.”
It was a record-setting night for Liverpool, with Mohamed Salah’s first goal seeing him overtake Steven Gerrard to become the club’s all-time Champions League top scorer with 22 goals.
And Klopp added: “It’s one record after another, and I’m pretty sure he’s proud of it … he should be!
(Image: Ritzau Scanpix / AFP via Getty Ima)
“He is an exceptional player, just an absolutely exceptional player and since we’ve been together a lot of things really fell into place. But he also appreciates the help of the team. Even his incredible number of goals alone would not be enough for us to succeed.
“But it is truly exceptional. Nobody doubted it, but if you need numbers to prove it, he fulfills it too. “
Liverpool will now turn their attention back to Premier League matters, with the Reds taking on struggling Fulham this weekend ahead of a potentially huge showdown regarding the title race when they take on Tottenham next. Wednesday.
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