Ki-Jana Hoever is eyeing a start against Arsenal in the next round of the Carabao Cup after opening his Liverpool account against Arsenal.
Hoever’s powerful header from James Milner’s cross doubled Liverpool’s lead in the second half at Stadium MK.
He became the youngest defender to score a goal for the Reds.
And the Dutchman wants to be rewarded with a first Anfield outing when Arsenal visit in Round Four next month.
“You hope the manager starts you in the next game again and gives you minutes,” he told liverpoolfc.com. “That’s what you are hoping for the next game.”
The 17-year-old credited the more experienced players in the camp for setting an example.
Clearly, Jurgen Klopp has instilled plenty of confidence among the up-and-coming academy crop, who believe they’ve fully earned their places alongside the established talent.
“I think that’s the perfect way to start learning how to play for Liverpool, how they want to play, with some experience in the team. I think it’s nice to have a few youngsters [in the team],” he said.
“You need to play your game. You are here because you can play good football so you need to show everyone and not try to hide, just show your talent and we all tried to do that.”
It’s worth starting the youngsters against Arsenal as it would be the biggest test of their abilities yet and an opportunity to truly make a name for themselves.
Dropping Hoever, Harvey Elliott or Curtis Jones after their impressive performances on Wednesday night would be very harsh.