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Jurgen Klopp has hinted that Takumi Minamino could see more action in midfield after his stellar display against Midtjylland.
MinaminoThe 25-year-old arrived in January from RB Salzburg, where he had impressed for five years with the Bundesliga club. However, the Japanese international has struggled to see much playing time due to the embarrassment of Liverpool’s riches up front.
He made 10 top flight appearances during the second half of 2019-2020, earning two starts. But it has been tough this season, with only one outing between six starts and 146 league minutes.
He has made 13 appearances in all competitions, yet he scored three goals. Four of them have made it to the Champions League and played their role on Wednesday night.
The Reds drew 1-1 with the Danish team to finish top of Group D. Mohamed salah opened the scoring just a minute before Alexander Scholz tied after the break.
Klopp was pleased with the effort of his team and especially with the way Minamino adjusted to his new role.
“I liked the football we played in the first half, especially with the changed team we had tonight,” he said. “The way we played, the way the guys adapted, not forgetting that Takumi Minamino played now only for the second time in that position, once in Brighton, which was a different game, and tonight he already looked much better. “.
Juggling act for Klopp
Salah, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Diogo Jota are all Minamino bosses in the hierarchical order. They have been available for most games, giving continuity to the boss at the helm.
It hasn’t been the same situation in defense or in midfield, where players have been struggling to stay in shape. That has given the Japanese ace an opportunity that he seems to be seizing with both hands.
He played the full 90 minutes against the Gaviotas in a more withdrawn position. And although it was not a vintage screen, there were signs that he could do a job.
Klopp felt that Minamino improved from his display against Brighton even if his men turned down some opportunities.
“I really like the football we played in the first half, we had a great time … if it’s not an opportunity, almost an opportunity, I’m not sure what the English word for that is,” he added. “But we had a lot of these moments that we could have used in a better way and that was good.”
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