During their 2-0 Carabao Cup victory against MK Dons on Wednesday, several Liverpool youngsters were given the opportunity to get some first-team football under their belts.
Jurgen Klopp made 11 changes from his starting line-up against Chelsea, including handing debuts to four teenagers. Added to that, he also gave 17-year-old Ki-Jana Hoever a second chance to impress after his sole appearance for the club in the FA Cup against Wolves last season.
It is fair to say that the Dutchman certainly grasped the opportunity with both hands. Playing in his natural right-back position, he helped the Reds keep a clean sheet at Stadium:MK whilst also managing to chip in with a goal after he headed home James Milner’s cross.
It was certainly a moment to remember for the former Ajax trainee, and after the game, he told Liverpool’s official website: “I have never scored before for Liverpool in the U18s or the U23s so it’s the first one for Liverpool and I’m really happy.
“Millie gave the cross and I was expecting the ball, hoping it to come my way, and it did, and I just headed it in.”
Hoever’s goal makes him the fourth-youngest goalscorer in the history of the club. He has done himself the world of good with his performance, showing Klopp what he can do and he will now hope to get more opportunities in the first team throughout the season.
Liverpool supporters are excited about the potential of the young Dutchman, and have been hyping him up on social media. Here is what some of them have said…
Next Cafu
— Jay (@_Ifcjay) September 26, 2019
Dutch defender
Jumps high
Heads it home
GOAT in the making— Desi Scouser (@Nick_6_times) September 26, 2019
One for the future
— Cousama O3 (@CousamaO3) September 26, 2019
I’m gonna say this knowing my sanity could be questioned!….this guy could be even better than Trent…I think TA is a truly gifted footballer(thankfully ours)but this player is exceptional..would not hesitate playing him if Trent out..or TA in Midfield?❤️Lfc❤️YNWA
— Charli (@lemongrass19711) September 26, 2019
Hoever will be a “franchise” defining player for years to come. Crazy talent. Seems down to earth too.
— Anfielder (@Anfielder247) September 26, 2019
It’s so Van Dijk esque it’s unreal.
— Phil the LFC Fan (@PhilTheLFCFan) September 26, 2019
