Liverpool Under-21 manager Barry Lewtas talks about Arthur Melo
The Reds’ deadline day signing Arthur Melo featured for the Liverpool U21 squad in their Papa John’s Trophy fixture against Rochdale. before that, the 26-year-old played the full 90 minutes against Leicester City in Premier League 2.
The Reds’ coach for the U21 side, Barry Lewtas spoke about Arthur’s dedication to getting match-fit after joining the Reds without a proper pre-season at Juventus. The Brazilian is also working on his days off to gain match fitness. Lewtas spoke highly of Arthur’s professionalism and it augurs well for the resurgent Brazilian.
With him not being part of Tite’s squad for Brazil’s friendlies, Melo has gotten more time on his hands before the international break ends to make an impression in the eyes of Jurgen Klopp. He would try to build a case to establish himself at the club.
Lewtas also added that the Brazilian has “been great” with the younger group of players in the U21 squad. He would have certainly created a template of professionalism for the youth academy players to follow.
“He wants to get fit, he doesn’t need a week off. It’s been off his own back which shows his level of professionalism. He’s been great with the young lads.”
Arthur is additionally undertaking a rigorous training programme, and hired professionals to help himself get back on track and impress Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool’s staff has been extremely impressed with Arthur’s progress. Hopefully, he could see himself breaking into the starting XI post the national friendlies.
The player, who is currently on loan at the Reds, has a clause in his contract to make the move permanent for £32.3m. According to Lewtas, Arthur will be training furthermore with the U21 squad until the league restarts.
“He’ll do a little work with us during the international break.”
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Liverpool will play Brighton on 1st October at Anfield in their first fixture after the conclusion of the national duties, and hopefully, Arthur will feature in the game.
