Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp asks fans to stop calling for Joe Gomez to shoot from distance every time
Jurgen Klopp has urged the Liverpool fans to stop provoking Joe Gomez for a shot from distance at every opportunity. Liverpool beat Southampton 3-0 in the FA Cup fifth round despite having a serious injury crisis in their senior team.
Klopp deployed numerous academy players and played Gomez as a number six in a midfield position amid the injury crisis. Gomez has displayed impressive versatility this season, playing as a right-back, left-back, centre-back and now as a defensive midfielder.
The 26-year-old faced criticism for the poor run of form last season, coinciding with the club’s struggling campaign. Nevertheless, he has played a vital role this season as Liverpool are challenging for the quadruple once more.
The Reds have already won the Carabao Cup after defeating a costly Chelsea team while deploying inexperienced academy players. Klopp has successfully built a culture where ambition for success balances effectively with developing young boys into men.
Speaking to the reporter after the Southampton victory (h/t Daily Mail), Klopp asked fans to stop demanding Gomez to shoot. He said:
“Now he[Gomez] plays the six, aye aye aye. The way he played is absolutely crazy. Can I ask the people, as funny as it is… shoot. Leave the boy alone, one day he will shoot, he will find the moment himself. If he shoots from 40 yards just because the people are calling then I will really get a bit angry but what a boy, what a game. Absolutely exceptional.”
Gomez has played 209 games for Liverpool while contributing nine assists but failed to open his goal account. This season, the 26-year-old has shown intention to break the duck and get himself the first senior-level goal.
Joe Gomez pic.twitter.com/B1RxGHiDoC
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 25, 2024
Despite his strong capabilities on the ball, Gomez has been a very unselfish player and the team’s instruction restricted him. The England international stays behind in set-piece situations which further diminishes his opportunity to score his first goal for Liverpool.
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Nevertheless, Klopp is correct about fans goading him too much at times when there are better options available. The quality of Gomez is well-known and his first goal for the club will come as long as he fulfils his main responsibilities.
