Liverpool have decided to reward Ben Doak’s excellent development with a new long-term contract.
On Tuesday evening James Pearce shared the Scot’s progress in pre-season and in particular his “attitude and work ethic” in training since being promoted to the first team.
“This new contract on improved terms is a reward for Doak’s excellent development since he arrived from Celtic just over a year ago,” wrote The Athletic journalist.
“The intrepid teenage winger has impressed staff and seniors alike with his attitude, work ethic and talent since being promoted to the first team last season, after initially making the jump from Under-18s to Under-21s ..
“Doak really caught the eye of Jürgen Klopp’s team in pre-season and the Europa League campaign will provide him with even more opportunities to showcase his abilities.
“He is learning from the best people in Mohamed Salah and believes he is in the best possible environment to realize his rich potential.”
Although the former Celtic prodigy has had limited opportunities to prove his worth so far this season (aside from a brief cameo in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea), the future remains very bright for the 17-year-old.
Liverpool don’t want to put too much pressure on Doak
Pearce is certainly right when he highlights the wealth of experience available in the current squad that we can learn from, with the likes of Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and especially Mo Salah all examples to look up to.
With speculation running rampant over the latter’s future this summer, amid a flurry of links to the Saudi Pro League (not to mention an actual bid in the region of £100 million), there is some curiosity within fans on the question of whether Doak’s potential could award him. as a possible long-term successor to the Egyptian king.
It will take some time before the youngster is entrusted with such a responsibility, even if he plays in the Europa League this year and our talismanic number 11 leaves the club next summer.
However, you can be sure that this is a talent that Jurgen Klopp and his coaching team will be keeping an eye on in the coming months – and rightly so.