Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has praised Spainish youngster Stefan Bajcetic following his heroic display against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea.
In a tightly contested match at Anfield on Saturday, Liverpool and Chelsea ended in a goalless draw, with both sides fighting for a chance to secure European football next season.
Despite the lack of goals, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp took positive notes from the match, specifically highlighting the performance of young prospect Stefan Bajcetic.
“There are not a lot of good things in the situation we are in, but obviously that opens doors and gaps and situations for young players. It is obviously one of the rare positive things, especially Stefan.”
“There was a door, I’m not even sure it was open, but he ran through it and he was exceptional.” the German tactician said.
The 18-year-old midfielder has taken advantage of the Reds’ issues in midfield and has made a strong case for a regular spot in the starting lineup. Bajcetic was voted player of the match in Liverpool’s FA Cup replay against Wolves and impressed again against Chelsea.
However, Klopp emphasized the need to be cautious and not put too much pressure on the young player.
“He does really well in the moment, I think that’s clear. We have to be a bit careful with him of course, he’s really young.
“He had a yellow card and I don’t even know [if] it was his fault, to be 100 per cent honest, but he got a yellow card, so of course he got tired, but [he] was still really good in the game.
“Each player when he gets tired and is on a yellow card is a risk, and we didn’t want to take that. But, no, he is doing really well.”
The Reds will be hoping that Bajcetic can help solve their midfield problems in the short term and potentially aid their push for a top-four finish and a spot in the Champions League next season.
A strong finish in the league table will also give them greater leverage in attracting big-name players during the summer transfer window.