Danny Ings has revealed his delight that the Reds got off to the perfect start by taking all three points on the opening weekend of Premier League fixtures, but admits he was naturally disappointed not be involved in the match itself.
Liverpool’s summer signing was among the substitutes at the Britannia Stadium and was just moments from coming on before Philippe Coutinho, the man he was due to replace, scored an incredible winning goal.
Ings took his place back on the bench knowing that he’d have to wait at least another eight days to make his Premier League bow as a Liverpool player – with our next game not until next Monday, when we take on Bournemouth.
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“I was just itching to get on,” he told our official website. “I kept looking at the clock to see how much time I had to make an impression. I had to stand up, go through set-pieces and then I saw everybody ripple. A player like that can pull something out of the bag, win the game and collect the points.
“That goal was superb – it’s credit to him, he’s such a fantastic footballer. Obviously I was over the moon with the result and hopefully my debut will come soon.
“It’s always important that even if you’re on the bench or not starting games, you’re always ready to be called upon. When I got the signal that I was coming on, I was really excited. It wasn’t to be but I’ll always make sure that I’m ready and willing to work hard for the team.”
What’s pleasing here is that the player was so desperate to get on and make an impact. Whereas other players might have been disappointed to be left out of the starting eleven, he understood the situation and was determined to make an impact with any time he did get to impress his new employers.
After a positive pre-season campaign, Liverpool fans will likely be eager to see Ings in action and will hope that he gets his chance at Anfield next time out. The 23-year-old scored 11 Premier League goals last season and won’t want to wait long to get off the mark this time around.
“I come in every day with a smile on my face because I know I’m working with good people and fantastic players,” he added. “I’m over the moon that I’ve settled in quickly. The only thing that I do concentrate on is improving every day as a player and as a person.
“I try my best not to leave the training pitch without knowing that I’ve improved some part of my game, whether it’s speed, tactical or technical. It’s important that I work hard every day to become the best I can be for myself and for Liverpool.”