According to the Liverpool Echo, Jurgen Klopp had plans to promote Liverpool youngster Ki-Jana Hoever if Dejan Lovren left the club last summer.
It’s claimed that Klopp would have been content to see Lovren leave last summer, and wouldn’t have brought in a replacement for him.
That’s because Klopp would have handed a bigger role to youngster Hoever, believing in the Dutchman to make the step up.
That didn’t happen as Lovren didn’t leave, but the same situation may arise this summer. Lovren has just one year left on his contract with the Reds and could be sold on.
If Lovren goes go, then maybe don’t expect Liverpool to dip into the market; instead, Hoever could be the one promoted to fill Lovren’s spot.
The 18-year-old has made just three appearances for Liverpool this season, coming in the EFL Cup or FA Cup, so heading into Premier League action would be a real leap.
However, that extra year of training under Klopp could be key. The Liverpool boss places great emphasis on players learning his methods, and Hoever may now be more prepared – even without much playing time.
Formerly of Ajax, Hoever isn’t the biggest centre back ever, but he has shown promise in that role in the past – and seemingly has the backing of Klopp if Lovren does move on.
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