BEN DOAK is the ‘absurdly explosive’ Liverpool wonderkid who is already being tipped to make a first-team breakthrough at the age of just 16.
He has bagged three goals in two games for the Reds’ Under-18 side and has been hailed as ‘a man against boys’ who is set to catch Jurgen Klopp’s eye sooner rather than later.
After the departure of Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich this summer, the Kop men have suffered a disastrous start to the season, culminating in a 2-1 loss to bitter rivals Manchester United.
But perhaps the answer to the missing Mane goals is already right under Liverpool’s nose?
Doak was signed from Celtic in March for just £600,000 after becoming the second-youngest player ever to play for the Hoops’ first team during a 3-0 victory over Rangers in February.
Doak also bagged a hat-trick against Georgia for Scotland Under-17s.
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And the winger with electric pace and an eye for goal has now been highlighted as one of Liverpool’s most exciting young talents in years after two scintillating performances for their Under-18s.
Jack Lusby, assistant editor of This Is Anfield tweeted: “Ben Doak is absolutely lethal. Just scored a brilliant breakaway goal for #LFC U18s. Can’t see him staying at this level for long.”
Liverpool author Paul Tomkins tweeted: “If he keeps grounded, and avoids injury, Ben Doak looks like he’s ready for men’s football, aged nearly 17.
“One of the best young players I’ve seen in eons watching youth footy. Pace, skill, can finish, but is also strong for his age. Can always go haywire, but a gem from Celtic.”
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“He was like a man against boys out there. I think he’ll be in Liverpool’s first team squad, barring injuries, by the end of the season.”
Youtuber Grizz Khan added: “Remember the name Ben Doak . So quick , great close control , a threat every time he gets the ball. Will be a star 100 per cent.”
Another fan tweeted: “Ben Doak is another gem from the academy. Balled out in today’s game with the u18s. Absurdly explosive. Excited to follow his development.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk