Liverpool’s Talent Factory. Which Teenagers Should Jürgen Klopp Keep an Eye On?

Teams worldwide pay a great deal of attention regarding the nurturing of the next generation of players. Building a club around young legs can be beneficial in terms of financial rewards and, at the same time, long-term reinforcements for the first team.

Only a few homegrown youngsters can make it. What determines success? Answering this question is an uphill battle, there are many decisive factors that influence it. Sometimes, it’s your luck to be discovered by a scout or a person who will believe in you, skills, sweat and dedication to play through the walls.

There is no right or wrong answer. The road to the highest level can be unpredictable and twisting.

The example of Andy Robertson speaks volumes. Released from Celtic’s academy as a youth prospect, he moved to amateur side Queen’s Park. The Scots played part-time football, while working behind the scenes for the Scottish Football Association. At that time, he posted a now funny message on Twitter, saying “life at this age is rubbish with no money #needajob”.

Over 25 years ago, Liverpool saw talents such as Robbie Fowler, Steve McManaman, David Thompson, Dominic Matteo, Michael Owen, Jamie Carragher and Lee Jones emerge and feature in Roy Evans’ squad.

Not that long ago a Scouser, Trent Alexander-Arnold has established himself as a first-team player, while Curtis Jones consistently gets the nod by Jurgen Klopp.

If you’re good enough, the opportunities will come. It’s as easy as that. What academy youngsters should you be aware of, then?

Stefan Bajcetic

Liverpool supporters have already seen glimpses of his abilities. Born in Spain, but with a Serbian heritage, he moved to Anfield in 2020 from Celta Vigo for £250.

His versatility lets him play at centre-back or in midfield. Having been involved in the summer pre-season with the Reds, he wasted no time in impressing the gaffer.

Calm on the ball, good in the air and can read the game really well. He’s made five appearances for the first-team this season across three competitions.

His very first full 90 minutes for Klopp, came against the League One outfit, Derby County in the third round of the EFL Cup. The Reds needed to win the penalty shootout to advance to the next round.

Bajcetic started the spot-kicks for Liverpool, but his shoot was saved by Joe Wildsmith. At the end of the day, they made it, with Harvey Elliot’s decisive strike.

Bobby Clark

Swapped Newcastle for Liverpool in August 2021. Last season, he earned a first professional contract with the Merseyside outfit.

An attacking-minded player, he can play anywhere across the forward line and in midfield.

Still only 17 years old, he worked his way up to play in the Premier League 2 under the wings of Barry Lewtas.

Promotion to the reserve team has been a milestone for him, in terms of further development. He registered 13 outings for the Lewtas’ side, netting once and assisting four times across all the competitions.

His outstanding form was spotted by Jürgen Klopp, who presented him with his debut against Bornemouth, coming on as a second-half substitute.

Similarly, was a part of this summer’s pre-season tour of Asia.

Ben Doak

He has the world at his feet, but let him thrive at his own pace! One of the household names of the academy players.

Doak joined from Celtic this year. At the age of 16, made his Celtic debut, coming on as a second-half substitute in a 1-0 Scottish Premiership win over Dundee United. He’s the second-youngest debutant for the Glasgow side, after Jack Aitchison.

Earlier this season, Liverpool came calling. The prospect of joining the well-renowned academy was one he couldn’t refuse, given Klopp’s eagerness in presenting youngsters with game time. His journey with Celtic came to an end, and the new exciting chapter with Liverpool started.

Doak can boast his speed, technical abilities and willingness to take on an opposing defender.

A forward, whose preferred position is the right wing. He’s developing both in Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s and Barry Lewtas’ teams.

Two days beofre his 17th birthday, he made his debut for the first-team in the Carabao Cup third-round victory against Derby County as a substitute.

Oakley Cannonier

Have you heard before about the famous ball boy who claimed the pre-assist for ‘Corner taken quickly… Origi’? Yes, the lad in question was Oakley Cannonier.

Trent’s key pass to Origi wouldn’t have been possible but for the quick-thinking of Cannonier.

He joined Kirby as an U12 from Leeds United. When the offer arrived from the Reds, he didn’t need to spend long hours to make a call. Speaking with Liverpool FC official website he said:

“I could’ve gone to a few different clubs, but I just always wanted to play for Liverpool. It was a no-brainer”.

Outstanding forward, with an eye for goals, who’s a part of Liverpool’s U21s squad now.

His efforts were appreciated in August this year, with a new, long-term deal.

The 2021-2022 season was a breakthrough for him, where he bagged 41 goals in all competitions for the academy. There is definitely more to come from him in the future.

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