Lazar Markovic’s promising loan spell with Fenerbahce has turned sour according to his latest comments.
The 22-year-old Serbian winger is spending the campaign in Turkey, but injuries have stunted his progress and his ability to get a run of games in the first-team.
He’s started just 14 league matches this term, and despite doing well when available, the time on the sidelines is getting the better of Markovic.
“I am extremely frustrated,” he told Turkish newspapers, cited in the Echo.
“I want to play and contribute to the side. The injuries I have suffered have led to a loss of motivation.”
When a player claims he’s lacking motivation fans are right to feel a little worried, although Reds won’t see Markovic until pre-season when he’ll return to show Jurgen Klopp what he can do. Last month Klopp told the Metro last month he’d give Markovic a chance, but it’s up to the winger to prove he’s got what it takes.
“We had a little talk about things. I said at the start of pre-season you will be very welcome and then it’s up to you,” the boss said.
Markovic is a very good dribbler, and his speed is matched with technical ability. He currently lacks consistent end product and it’s for that reason he’s not developed at the rate many thought he would following the £20m Anfield switch.
The first part of next season will be defining for Markovic’s Liverpool career. He’ll need to impress immediately or it’s unlikely he’ll get many opportunities considering the attacking midfielders already at Klopp’s disposal and the fact we’re targeting World Cup winner Mario Gotze (via Guardian).