Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp proved to be right about the readiness of Dominik Szoboszlai to play in his first-ever derby game
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp talked about his surprise when Dominik Szoboszlai told him about Everton being his first-ever derby match. However, the manager relayed his conviction to the 22-year-old about his readiness for the game.
Liverpool defeated their local rivals Everton 2-0 in the Premier League derby game at Anfield. Klopp’s men shrugged off disappointing results in the last two games. However, the overall team performance has been consistently strong and promising since the start of the season.
The Reds are third in the Premier League table with Tottenham Hotspur yet to play their game on this matchday. Liverpool revamped their midfield during the summer transfer window as fans have enjoyed the new recruitments and their exciting performances.
Klopp revealed his conversation with Szoboszlai before the game in his post-match press conference (h/t Liverpool FC’s official site). He said:
“Dom told me, ‘I actually never played a derby before.’ ‘What do you mean?’ ‘Salzburg don’t have a derby, Leipzig don’t have a derby, Hungary has maybe a derby but the countries who would be a derby, we never played since I played international football.’ ‘OK, good, no problem, you give always 100 per cent so you are ready for the game.’”
The Hungary international immediately became a fan favourite with his consistent performances this season. Szoboszlai has played 12 games for the Reds in all competitions and has scored two goals.
The 22-year-old’s performances have earned him a comparison with Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard. The Hungarian has shown similar passion, work-rate and determination as the Reds’ former captain. Additionally, Szoboszlai has similar technical abilities to distribute the ball and shoot from a distance.
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Klopp has gained renown for transforming highly potential players into world-class professionals. The Liverpool manager is actively working towards achieving the same for Szoboszlai, and he can already see the young talent living up to that faith. The 22-year-old possesses the character, passion, and personality that align perfectly with the profile expected at Anfield.
