Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was full of praise for his young players as they saw off pressure from Chelsea to win the Carabao Cup.
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Klopp heaps praise on young playersLiverpool beat Chelsea despite injuriesLiverpool win 10th Carabao CupWHAT HAPPENED?
Liverpool brought on young players Bobby Clark, James McConnell, Jayden Danns and Jarell Quansah as they sought to maintain energy levels late on in the game. Klopp's plan worked wonders as a late Virgil van Dijk header proved to be the winner and the young player's were lauded by Gary Neville and Klopp. Liverpool are amidst an injury crisis, made only worse by an injuries to Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo at Wembley.
AdvertisementGetty/ GOALWHAT KLOPP SAID
Speaking after the game to , Klopp said: "What happened here was absolutely insane, these things are not possible. The team, a squad, an academy full of character. I am so proud I could be part of that tonight. I am sure we brought on all the kids! We needed fresh legs, they were fresh but very young, but they did the job. The boys have trained for a long time with us, they know exactly what we have to do."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Being able to rely on the academy players proved invaluable for Liverpool and Klopp and offered a glimpse into the future once Klopp departs at the end of the season. Liverpool have always boasted a strong academy and today only reaffirmed this. Whoever comes in to replace the German will have a young core of young players able to step in.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR KLOPP?
After winning the first of four trophies available, Klopp will be dreaming of adding the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup before he leaves Anfield. He can continue his pursuit of the latter next weekend against Southampton.
