Danny Ings spent most of last season out injured, but it seems he’s been putting his down time to good use. The young striker claims he’s been studying Jurgen Klopp’s tactics since his arrival, making sure he’s ready to give everything to the team when the 2016/17 campaign gets underway, as reported by Goal.
Klopp employs a very specific style, with the enigmatic manager expecting every one of his players to press as a unit and work together to win the ball back. Once the ball is won there’s an instant transition from defence to attack, with the German boss demanding quick counter-attacks to catch the opposition off guard.
Ings has been studying this style and learning exactly what is required of both himself and the rest of the team, ready to play whatever part he’s given next season.
“It’s very important after an injury like this to ensure you go above and beyond to make sure you’re at your best,” he said (via Goal).
“I couldn’t change the fact that I did my ACL, but I could control how I reacted to it. That’s what I focused on, becoming stronger mentally and physically, but I also used the time to learn.
“I paid attention to the counter-pressing, which suits my game so much, and how and when to use it.
“I saw how much work happens off the ball, the compact defending so you don’t allow the opposition to break, and the movement required from the strikers.
“Every game I watched was as a supporter, encouraging the lads, but I also took everything I could from them.”
The 23-year-old has shown great character (Brendan Rodgers would be proud) and an excellent attitude, which will no doubt please Klopp. He isn’t the type of manager who puts up with laziness or a bad attitude from his players, but Ings has clearly shown he possesses neither of those shortcomings.
He also sent a message to the fans during his interview, highlighting his appreciation for the supporters and offering assurances that he’d give everything he could upon his full return.
“I appreciate it when supporters throw themselves behind the team,” Ings continued.
“And I’m sure for them, they appreciate it when they see a player who is going to give everything he can of himself for the club
“I want to give 100 per cent every day whether it’s training, a cup final or a friendly. Football is not just a game, it means the world to me and I’m so thankful of what it has given to me and my family, so every opportunity I get, I want to give my all in return.”
Ings was able to feature during the last game of the Premier League season, but it’s next season he’ll now be focusing on. Even the staunchest supporter will admit that the former Burnley man is far from the best striker in the game, but he may well prove to be the perfect Klopp player. He works hard, harasses the opposition, and unquestionably has an eye for goal. It will be interesting to see how he does under Klopp, and hopefully we see him thrive under the former Bundesliga boss.