After his impressive performances during the international break, Japanese forward Takumi Minamino must now start to bring his international form back over to domestic football for the Reds.
The 25-year-old scored the only goal of the game during Japan’s victory over Panama in an international friendly last week – and it is key that the player starts to bring this goalscoring from back to Liverpool with the heavy schedule ahead for the Reds.
Currently, Jurgen Klopp’s side sees seven first-team players on the sidelines for at least the next few weeks and this opportunity must be taken by the forward if he wishes to really make a dent in this Liverpool side and try to keep a spot in the starting XI.
I really like Minamino as a player, his direct style of attack and ability with the ball at his feet is something that can be a joy to watch at times – and it appears as though the Japanese international always has a smile on his face when on the pitch, another little quirk that I like if I’m honest.
Will Minamino's performances improve this season?
Yes
No
The beauty of Minamino is his versatility, being able to play on the wing as well as down the middle – in addition to having featured in attacking midfield for his country when on international duty.
This trait is something that holds great stead in terms of Jurgen Klopp’s preference in what his players can provide, with Minamino clearly happy to play anywhere under the German so long as he is on the pitch.
At the start of the season, Minamino managed 2 goals and 1 assist in the club 7-2 victory over Lincoln City in the EFL Cup but hasn’t scored for the Reds since – so it is key that he manages to find this goalscoring form again as I believe he could be an invaluable asset for the club these next few weeks.
What do you think Liverpool fans, could Takumi Minamino become an important player these next few weeks? Let us know in the comments section below…