‘Looks completely different’: Klopp says Liverpool player has changed so much in pre-season

Follow us on Google Discover

Jurgen Klopp has told BBC Radio Five Live that Liverpool forward Takumi Minamino has looked like a ‘completely different’ player over pre-season.

Minamino was brought to Liverpool in January, but he struggled badly for goals.

The Japanese forward did not hit the back of the net at all for the Reds last term, as he took time to find his feet in the Premier League.

Minamino has now shown why Liverpool brought him to Anfield though, as he has had such a bright pre-season.

The 25-year-old opened his goalscoring account for the club by hitting the back of the net in the Community Shield final, and he has since gone from strength to strength.

Minamino has been a frequent scorer in Liverpool’s friendly matches, and Klopp feels that he is ready to make a real impact this term, alongside Naby Keita and Curtis Jones.

“Naby Keita had his most consistent player after lockdown because he did not have injuries and was a really important part of this period,” Klopp said.

“I don’t want to put pressure on Curtis Jones but he looked very promising in the games he players.

“I was always clear that Takumi Minamino needs time and he looks completely different.”

Minamino may have impressed over pre-season but it still seems most likely that he will start on the bench for Liverpool on opening day.

The Reds are set to take on Leeds United at Anfield on Saturday, in Marcelo Bielsa’s side’s first game back after promotion.