James Milner spoke to BBC Sport after Liverpool recorded a 3-1 win over Southampton in the Premier League, where he interestingly praised Ben Doak without prompt.
James Milner praises Liverpool wonderkid Ben Doak
Well, the 36-year-old was asked how it feels to have registered 600 appearances in the Premier League, which is when the Liverpool No.7 highlighted Doak.
As quoted by BBC Sport, Milner said: “It’s a big number isn’t it? It’s unbelievable. It’s been a very long time. You see someone like Ben Doak come on the other night at a similar age (to when he debuted) and do well. Hopefully they can have a long career as I have.”
It really is a fantastic achievement by Milner, although it speaks volumes about his character that he immediately chose to shower someone else in praise while being praised himself – he is humbleness personified.
In truth, to say Doak “did well” is an understatement.
The Scotland Under-21 international made his first-team debut for Liverpool on Wednesday as the Reds beat Derby on penalties in the Carabao Cup, with Jürgen Klopp handing the 17-year-old 16 minutes of action.
Impressively, Doak – who was 16 at the time of the game, and turned 17 yesterday – made the most of his opportunity.
As FotMob shows, the teenager managed to complete three successful dribbles, ten passes and also had a shot in his 16 minutes on the pitch.
Doak also showed his industrial side, winning four ground duels and one aerial duel, while also completing one successful cross.
The Liverpool No.50 did a lot in his cameo – enough to earn him a place on the bench in today’s win over Southampton – and he clearly has a bright future under Klopp at Anfield.
Ben Doak set for stardom at Liverpool
Sir Kenny Dalglish has already told The Sunday Post that he thinks Doak will go on to have a “bright future” – we can’t help but agree.
The Scottish sensation does not looked phased one bit to be playing at this level, and seeing as Klopp has already developed the likes of Harvey Elliott and Trent Alexander-Arnold superbly, the German is likely to help Doak fulfil his vast potential.
Things may be a bit uncertain at Anfield following news that FSG are ready to sell the Reds, but with gems like Doak within the club, the future is very exciting.
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