Erik Ten Hag thinks the criticism of reported Liverpool target Perr Schuurs has been a little overblown, telling Voetbal International that the defender is not short of ‘potential’.
During October’s Champions League clash between Ajax and Liverpool at the iconic Johan Cruyff Arena, the rangy 20-year-old offered a tantalising glimpse into why he is viewed by many in the Netherlands as Matthijs de Ligt’s heir apparent.
But, even during a performance full of class and composure, Schuurs still made a mistake that cost the Dutch giants dear.
Diving into the most naïve of tackles, the Ajax academy graduate was left choking on Sadio Mane’s dust seconds before Nicolas Tagliafico deflected a wayward shot into his own net.
There has been no shortage of criticism since then, with the legendary Rafael Van der Vaart claiming that Schuurs is ‘not ready’ to shine at the highest level after he endured difficult nights against Atalanta and Midtjylland too.
But a man who knows the youngster better than most is convinced that Schuurs is on the right track.
“Given the trajectory he has taken, it is very logical that he now has to take a few more steps to prove himself at the very highest level,” said former Bayern Munich reserve coach Ten Hag.
“But that he has the potential, that’s great. He will learn in these competitions. In the Eredivisie, you can see that he is growing and he will also take those steps in the Champions League.”
The Mirror reports that Liverpool are keen on finally signing a long-term transfer target in 2021, with Schuurs one of a number of talented young defenders on the radar of a club who recently lost Virgil van Dijk to a lengthy injury.
If there is anyone who can iron out those kinks, it is a coach who turned Robert Lewandowski, Mario Gotze, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Sadio Mane into genuine world superstars.
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