Liverpool have faced a defensive crisis this season, but Jurgen Klopp appears to be very excited about Billy Koumetio’s future.
The Reds sold Dejan Lovren without replacing him, then lost both Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez to major knee injuries.
Joel Matip has picked up a knock too, meaning Klopp ended Sunday’s game at Fulham with Fabinho and Jordan Henderson as a makeshift centre back pairing.
Nat Phillips has had chances to play, whilst Rhys Williams has even stepped up – and Koumetio may be next in line for first-team action.
The French talent arrived from US Orleans in 2018, and stands at a colossal 6ft 5in tall, which has prompted Klopp to state previously that he ‘doesn’t look like a kid’.
Koumetio appeared in pre-season action an came on as a substitute against Midtjylland last week, suggesting Klopp really does have high hopes for him.
At just 18, Koumetio is still very raw, but looks to have a bright future ahead of him if he continues to develop – and Klopp has now hailed him.
“Billy Koumetio? Incredible,” said Klopp when speaking to Sky Sports, using just one word to sum up how highly the giant centre back is rated at Anfield.
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