Hat-trick hero Divock Origi told to remain patient by Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool's Divock Origi celebrates scoring his side's fourth goal of the game

DIVOCK ORIGI has been told he must be patient by Jurgen Klopp despite plundering his first Liverpool hat-trick in the brutal dismantling of Southampton.

 

The Belgium forward was named Man of the Match in the 6-1 thrashing of Ronald Koeman’s side, which set up a Capital One Cup semi-final showdown with Stoke City in the New Year.

Origi started Klopp’s first game in charge against Tottenham, but the 20-year-old has found his opportunities restricted since then and was left out of one match-day squad in order to focus on his training instead.

He responded to a rare start by diverting Alberto Moreno’s shot beyond Southampton goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg before fizzing a thunderbolt shot past him and completing his treble with a smart header.

Liverpool manager Klopp is mindful that Origi, whom he wanted to sign for Borussia Dortmund before the striker moved to Anfield instead from Lille for £10m, is anxious to make a contribution.

But following talks with the player, he impressed upon Origi the need to wait for his chances and learn his trade.

“We had a talk, again,” said Klopp. “It's not too often that we agree in everything. I said he had learn this and that, don't make this too difficult, and he said, 'Yes, I know'.

“But he wants to show everything in the short times he plays. Everyone wanted him before Liverpool bought him, but he has to learn.

“He has to be patient. That's the truth. In 10 or 15 years he'll have no idea about the games he didn't make in this moment, when he was training.”

 

The return to fitness of Daniel Sturridge, who scored Liverpool’s first two goals on Wednesday, and the presence of fellow Belgian Christian Benteke means the competition for places is intense.

“Today he did everything simple, easy passes and finishes and movement,” said Klopp. 

“He got some good passes, but he's still young and has to learn.”