Jurgen Klopp sets out plan to get Tyler Morton ready for first-team action at Liverpool
According to Liverpool Echo, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has set a plan to improve Tyler Morton and his chances of regular first-team football after the Liverpool youngster enjoyed a solid full debut on Wednesday in Carabao Cup.
Morton made his first start for the Reds as they visited North End in the fourth round of the League Cup. Another teenager Harvey Blair was also given a full debut as Liverpool boss made 11 changes from the side that thrashed Man United at the weekend.
Klopp, speaking in the post-match interview, as quoted by Liverpool Echo, said:
“Tyler is obviously a real talent and a real smart footballer. He is a smart boy and his technique is really good.”
“Now we have to make sure we can get him a body for adult football and he’s not too strong or too skinny but there’s a bit to come to make him ready for this.”
Liverpool have been in sensational form this season and still unbeaten in all competitions. They are currently second in the points table in the Premier League, just a point behind Chelsea.
They are also favourites to top their Champions League group and with West Ham United beating defending champions Manchester City in Carabao Cup on Wednesday, the Reds can be seen as favourites along with Chelsea for this Cup as well.
The 18-year-old, who signed his first professional deal in August, sees Thiago Alcantara as an inspiration.
Speaking earlier this year (h/t Liverpool Echo), Morton said:
“Steven Gerrard and now it’s Thiago (when asked about who are your heroes). I like to try and copy everything he does – rolling the ball under my studs, no-look passes, that kind of thing!”
Morton, who hails from Wallasey, has been at the Liverpool Academy since the age of seven. If he can replicate his idols in the future, the Reds would have a special, special player on their hands.