Jurgen Klopp predicts future for Jordon Ibe after teenager gives Liverpool crucial win

Jurgen Klopp secured his first win in Europe as Liverpool manager

JURGEN KLOPP saluted Jordon Ibe as a "big talent" who will continue to improve after his first goal for the club secured a valuable Europa League win last night.

 

The Liverpool teenager struck in the second half against Rubin Kazan to put Klopp's rapidly improving side in control of their Europa League destiny, moving second in Group B with two to play.

"He is a good lad and a big talent - a very skilled player," said Klopp of the striker. "Jordon has a really good base and he feels good at this moment but he has to work. He has a lot to learn.

"If he is prepared for this then everything will be good."

 

Liverpool's next Group B fixture comes against Bordeaux with a trip to Sion to round off. Victory against the French side will secure safe passage to the knockout stages.

Klopp is clearly effecting improvement from his Liverpool squad judged on their effective dismantling of Kazan compared to a 1-1 draw at home against 10-men in the reverse fixture.

"We had chances in Liverpool but today we played much better. We are four weeks together and have more experience together.

 

Jordon Ibe scored the only goal of the game to give Liverpool a crucial three points

 

"The first 80 minutes was really good. It was not easy to play because it was fantastic atmosphere but the pitch is not in the same shape as the rest of the stadium.

"It was not easy with possession we could have had more and we deserved our goal and then we have to learn to win.

 

"We had 1-0 and lost rhythm and opened the door for Rubin Kazan. The fought for their lives and it was great to see how much they want to win and now everything is fine."

Klopp, whose side face Crystal Palace at home on Sunday, admitted Phillipe Coutinho was suffering from a slight hamstring strain but is hopeful he will be fine for Sunday.