Liverpool FC coach has stated that the new Reds signing Takumi Minamino has settled to life at Merseyside. Minamino arrived at Anfield in January, following his move from Red Bull Salzburg. The Japanese international has been used sparingly by Klopp since then.
Ahead of the Merseyside Derby on Sunday night, Klopp has assured the Reds supporters that Minamino has become accustomed to being a Liverpool FC player. The German coach admitted to the fact that time was the key to behind the settling-in process of the player.
Klopp explained that the initial two-three months for a new player at any side are very crucial. During those times, a player may not perform up to the required standards set both by the club and the fans. However, Klopp added that there was full support from the Reds squad to Minamino, helping the new arrival to adapt quickly to the Premier League’s environment.
Minamino signed as a Liverpool FC player when the Merseyside club activated his £7.25 million release clause. The 25-year old had excelled for his former side Salzburg in the Austrian league and the Champions League. Moreover, his brilliant performance in the Champions League tie against Liverpool FC made Jurgen Klopp take notice of him.
The Japanese forward has only made three appearances for the Reds so far. But, with the team assembling together in the recent training sessions, Minamino has done very well. James Milner stated recently that the forward has shown impeccable quality in front of the goal. Minamino was also the scoresheet in last week’s friendly game against Blackburn Rovers.
There is no shortage of attacking options at Klopp’s disposal for the Reds. Roberto Firmino, Mohammad Salah, and Sadio Mane make the front three for the Liverpool FC starting lineup. Reds heroic super-sub Divock Oirgi is preferred by Klopp to be the back up for either of three first-team forwards.
In such events, Minamino’s playing time on the pitch has been quite limited. However, with Xherdan Shaqiri and Adam Lallana set to depart in the coming weeks, the Japan international could expect more opportunities to display his quality on the pitch.
