Klopp Calls on Academy Staff to Prepare Marko Grujic

Marko Grujic was one of the first players that Klopp acquired after becoming manager of Liverpool Football Club at the end of 2015. While the 21-year-old Serbian midfielder hasn’t received much first team exposure, Klopp has seen great strides in his development while with the team.

Neil Critchley, coach of Liverpool U23 team, spoke to the official website about the conversation he and Klopp had regarding Grujic.

“A couple of weeks ago we had an in-house game at Melwood and the manager spoke to me and said Marko has made big strides but maybe nobody has seen that because it’s not visible, so he wanted him to play for the U23s when the opportunity arises, and feels it is important for his development,” he began.

“I have to say, the games that Marko has played for us, he has done very well in. You can see he is a top-class player and what I like about him, and I’ve not been in his company too many times, is he is a very humble boy.

“He listens and he asks you questions. He has got a really good attitude and he is a good boy to work with, and if we can help him get closer to the first team then that’s our job.”

As fall fades into winter and injuries start to pile up, Klopp will no doubt need to call on Grujic’s services in the midfield. Having the player fit and ready to slot in should the need arise could only be a benefit to the club.

Critchley continued, “Because of the size of him, his stature, he is such a big lad and an impressive person to look at, he’s a man, but you do forget he is still young,” he added.

“He needs support and he needs guidance, and if we can help him in any way we can, because he’s played in a few first-team games, then great. As the manager said, sometimes the development can go a little bit under the radar. He will see that because he is working every day with him on the training pitch.

“Sometimes it might not be as visible to supporters but I’m sure Marko in the future will be a really good player for this football club.”