Liverpool star Ben Doak is proving his worth at Middlesbrough as he gradually establishes himself, gaining more Championship game time. The Scotland international joined Middlesbrough from Liverpool on a season-long loan deal during the summer of 2024 to gain experience.
Doak enjoyed a steep rise during the Jurgen Klopp era, breaking into the senior team and making some first-team appearances. Many Liverpool fans believe that the 18-year-old could establish himself as a first-team regular at the club in the future.
Middlesbrough are currently ninth in the EFL Championship table with only five points separating them from Sunderland at the top. Doak could play an important role for the Boro in their quest to return to the Premier League next season.
The 18-year-old has made five appearances in the Championship so far, scoring his first goal against Stoke City in September. Doak has played as the right midfielder and a right-winger for Middlesbrough, starting the game in the last three fixtures.
According to OptaJoe’s data insight Editor Nathan Evans (via X), Doak has created 3.36 chances per 90 minutes for Middlesborough. It is the highest figure by any player with five-plus appearances in the competition so far this season.
Doak also ranks fourth in the competition for touches in the opposition’s box per 90 minutes with 9.07 touches in five-plus appearances. If the 18-year-old could continue his fine form for the Boro, he has a good argument to succeed Mohamed Salah.
The legendary Liverpool forward Salah has continued his prolific form for the club this season despite his uncertain contract situation. The 32-year-old is playing in the last season of his current contract which earns him £350,000 per week at Liverpool.
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Irrespective of what the future holds for Salah, Liverpool needs to secure a successor for the Egypt captain immediately. If Doak maintains his form and regularity to fulfil his immense potential, he could establish himself as the right-wing option for the Reds in the near future.
