How Liverpool’s Joe Gomez Grew From Year-Long Injury Absence

As a young Liverpool team continues to hold its own toward top of the Premier League table, one defensive prospect is working hard to rejoin the on-pitch joy.

Joe Gomez, the 19-year-old that manager Jürgen Klopp called “an unbelievable talent” earlier this month, has been recovering from a severe ACL injury over the past year. While the injury has pushed him to the outskirts of the first-team picture, Klopp said a loan is not what he needs.

Gomez appreciated the comment from his boss, and agreed that his short-term future remains at Anfield.

“We spoke a bit about the future, loan talk and stuff like that,” Gomez said (via the club website). “My aim isn’t to go out on loan – I want to challenge here, that has to be my aim after a long time out ... Me coming back and rushing straight out, there are pros and cons to it, but it was a compliment for him to say that. I’m thankful that he sees it that way.

The defender acknowledged that he has to readjust to the demanding nature of Klopp training sessions and the style of the team. But after watching from the sidelines for a year, he’s prepared to take on that challenge.

“I’ve still got learning to do,” Gomez said. “But I learned quite a bit watching football for a year; it does help, because you take more time to look at small details. You take it for granted. When you’re injured, it means more.”