Jurgen Klopp claims Naby Keita has taken a big step at Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp claims Naby Keita has taken a “big step” in his Liverpool career after a great display against Bournemouth.

The Guinean midfielder hasn’t been great since signing from RB Leipzig but showed glimpses of his ability in the 1-1 draw against West Ham.

Klopp started him against the Cherries and he was fantastic. The midfielder produced a brilliantly weighted pass for Roberto Firmino to run onto in the build-up of the third goal. The Brazilian then produced a backheel for Mohamed Salah to slot home.

The German manager claimed that Keita also had a great second half at the London stadium a few days ago (h/t Liverpool Echo):

“It was a big step, this game. The second half against West Ham was a big step but nobody really realised it because nobody was happy with the game and nobody talked about this.”

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool — Mohamed Salah

The German claimed there was more to come from the 24-year-old, and the Reds were not going to give up on him.

“Bournemouth was a really good game. There is still a lot to come because he is still adapting. Sometimes it takes longer, that’s how it is. People lose patience, that’s normal – but we don’t. This was obviously one of the best games he’s played.”

Keita is one of the expensive signings under the current regime, and apart from the first game of the season, we haven’t seen a lot of great moments from him. Maybe this is the time he starts to shine.

Adjusting to a new league, country and team is never a smooth process and some players take more time than others. We could see the best of Keita from next season.