If you are not aware, Dubliner Conor Masterson is currently captain of Liverpool’s U-18 side.
Since signing for the Merseyside club as a 13-year-old, Masterson has continued to impressive in his fledgling career.
His talents are not only known to Liverpool, the 18-year-old has also captained the Republic of Ireland U-17s during the European Championships.
Last season he came close to earning his senior debut for Liverpool when Klopp named him on the substitutes bench for their FA Cup clash with Exeter City.
Unfortunately for Masterson, he was wan unused substitute but it was a clear indicator of his potential.
As of late, Masterson continues to make an impression as he was invited, along with the rest of Liverpool’s senior squad, to a warm-weather training camp in La Manga, Spain.
For the former Lucan United player to be included in this group is undoubtedly a seal of approval from Klopp who clearly sees something in the player.
The former Borussia Dortmund manager revealed to the Liverpool Echo what his thoughts were behind inviting Masterson, and his academy colleague, Yan Dhanda, to the training camp.
“I knew them both from training with us already,” Klopp said.
“I also spoke with Pep (Lijnders – academy coach) and it was a logical decision.
“We could have taken Rhian Brewster or a few other guys, but Yan Dhanda and Conor Masterson are the next boys.”
This suggests that Masterson is the next player from the club’s academy to make the step up to the senior squad, which is something Irish fans are finding particularly exciting.
Klopp further revealed his admiration for the players’ work ethic, something which they would need to have in spades if they are to fit in with Klopp’s footballing philosophy.
“…We needed two players and we decided on Yan and Conor.
“I know all of the boys and that’s really cool. It’s a good group. They have worked well, really good attitude. Yan and Conor have fitted in well.”
It has now been eight years since an Irish player turned out for Liverpool – could Masterson become the first since Robbie Keane donned the famous red shirt?
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