Sander Berge clearly left a lasting impression on Jurgen Klopp.
In November 2019 the giant Norwegian produced a coming-of-age display on one of Europe’s biggest stages, shining as Genk ran Liverpool close on their hallowed Anfield turf in the Champions League group stages.
And, as the full-time whistle echoed around the famous old arena, Klopp made an immediate beeline for a 21-year-old midfielder who gave Fabinho, Naby Keita and Gini Wijnaldum a real run for their money.
“You are an interesting player, a very interesting player,” said Klopp, in quotes reported by VG.
Berge, understandably, was thrilled to learn he had caught the eye of arguably the finest tactician in the modern game. It’s not every day a manager such as Klopp singles you out for praise after all.
“It was a great moment,” the former Valerenga star beamed when asked about his conversation with Klopp.
“You take it with a smile. It’s nice such a reputable trainer says something like that.”
It is 16 months since an Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stunner led Liverpool to victory over the then-reigning Belgian champions.
And it seems Klopp hasn’t forgotten about a 6ft 4in powerhouse who made a £22 million move to Britain just weeks after Genk’s brief but brilliant Champions League adventure came to an end.
EuroSport claims Berge is destined to depart Sheffield United when the Blades are relegated from the top flight.
And Liverpool, Klopp’s Liverpool, have identified the now 23-year-old as a long-term replacement for the out of contract Wijnaldum.
While the Anfield faithful may harbour reservations about the arrival of a midfielder who will end the season with the ignominy of relegation on his CV, it’s worth remembering Wijnaldum arrived after Newcastle had dropped out of the top flight in 2016.
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