One of the defining things about Klopp’s short tenure so far has been his willingness to look to the academy.
It all started back in January when the German recalled a host of loanees in the midst of a hamstring crisis, but since then he’s shown them his trust and has been willing to play them in both the cups and the league.
Dalglish thinks much of the quality in the younger ranks is a result of Rafa’s hard work.
“Sheyi Ojo, Jordon Ibe and Jerome Sinclair were both brought in at that time while others including Jon Flanagan, Connor Randall, Ryan Kent, Cameron Brannagan, Ryan Kent and Jordan Rossiter had the benefit of working with the staff that Rafa put in place”, said the legend (via Echo).
“All of those players have played for Liverpool’s first team this season having been given opportunities by Jurgen Klopp and I am sure that Jurgen will appreciate the contribution that Rafa made in that respect.
“The staff that Rafa brought into the Academy, especially Frank McParland, Rodolfo Borrell and Pep Segura, all made a positive difference and the work that they put in is bearing fruit and I’m sure it will continue to do so.
“So Rafa can rightly be proud of his contribution to Liverpool and I’ve no doubt he will be given the kind of welcome he deserves.”
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So far this season Klopp has handed debuts to six academy graduates, as well as giving game time non-academy youngsters like Tiago Illori and João Teixeira.
In fact, we’ve used 31 players in the league this season, second only to Man Utd’s 33 (via Transfermarkt).
What do you think? Does Rafa deserve the credit? Let us know…