Klopp in exciting Kabak declaration; reveals ex-Prem boss’ crucial role

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said that Ozan Kabak is ready to “deliver” for his new club, adding that he remains equally keen to learn.

The Reds have signed the Schalke centre-back on loan until the end of the season, with the option to buy.

They sealed the move on deadline day, amid a similarly fast-paced move to bring Ben Davies in from Preston.

Turkey international Kabak, meanwhile, has proved a mainstay in the Schalke team this season. As such, he has faced continued adversity with the club rock bottom of the Bundesliga.

Indeed, Schalke’s woes saw them sack ex-Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner earlier in the season. But amid his long-term friendship with Klopp, Wagner still proved crucial in helping his fellow German decide on Kabak.

“Yes, Dave was already very, very positive about him,” Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com. “He came very young to Germany and everybody was clear he was a massive talent.

“He is only 20 now. He plays in his second club [in Germany]; he is at Schalke and unfortunately they are in a bad position in the moment.

“For him, I think it’s a really good moment to make the move because, like each player in the world, you need a stable team around you and that’s what we can deliver.

David Wagner, Ozan Kabak

“We deliver a stable team and you can play your position, you don’t have to be 20 with pretty much everything on the pitch and not allowed to make mistakes anymore.

“He’s really a big, big talent and we are really looking forward to working with him.”

Wagner worked with Kabak for over a year and proved crucial in informing Klopp of the player’s potential.

As such, the Liverpool boss has made a firm declaration about what fans can immediately expect from the new arrival.

Klopp makes Kabak declaration

Ozan Kabak TEAMtalk

“Dave always said he will be a future captain of a team. He is a proper personality,” the manager added.

“When you go abroad in that young age, to another country and play for other clubs, he could have played in Turkey in each club he wants. Goes then to Stuttgart, goes then to Schalke.

“He could have gone anywhere but he wanted to make football steps and we are a proper football step for him.

“He wants to learn but he can deliver already.”

It remains unclear at this stage what sort of role Kabak can expect to play.

Fabinho should be fit for Sunday’s visit of Manchester City, with Jordan Henderson filling in in recent matches.

However, Klopp now has Kabak, Davies, Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips to choose from. Indeed, Joel Matip has been ruled out for the rest of the season with ankle ligament damage.

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