After impressing Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in recent games Dominic Solanke looks set to feature against Everton in the FA Cup on Friday.
January isn’t just about transfers. There is some football to be played. Next up is a big one; Everton at Anfield in the 2017/18 FA Cup. This one is loaded with history and meaning. It is not a game Liverpool can take lightly.
Manager Jurgen Klopp is talking about playing a strong side in the competition. He mentioned today in his pre-match media conference that this was an opportunity. The Reds could have won silverware in his first season at the club. Last year the team did not embrace the opportunities of the cup competitions. They will not waste them this year.
One player who is increasingly being involved in the first team is Dominic Solanke and the manager has been impressed with the efforts of the Englishman.
Klopp on Solanke: "Each game for Dom is very important… He will score, no doubt about that. For a player like Dom it’s perfect if he plays as much as possible."
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 4, 2018
➡ https://t.co/32wWtyiqQT pic.twitter.com/9kfCfxt4Jk
Klopp: "Dom Solanke ran 12.5km v Burnley. He will score goals, there's no doubt."
— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) January 4, 2018
The England Under 20 World Cup winner had an impressive preseason and forced his way into first team consideration. Though he is yet to score in a competitive fixture, Klopp believes it is only a matter of time before the goals are flowing.
As we know from the boss’s love of Roberto Firmino, he wants huge levels of effort from his front man. The hassling and chasing that have defined Firmino’s energetic role in the side is rubbing off on the youngster. Solanke’s work rate against Burnley was evident. His running kept Liverpool on the front foot to combat the Claret’s deep, compact set up.
Next: This is the back four we want versus Everton in the FA Cup
He has been unlucky not to open his account for the club. An assist on his first start against Stoke was almost followed up with a goal but a smart Lee Grant save denied him. He also had a goal disallowed against West Brom after a ridiculous handball decision. Let’s hope Dominc Solanke gets that monkey of his back against the Blues tomorrow!