‘Imagine’ – Liverpool forward ‘not entirely fit’ as boss delivers significant verdict
Despite being only 17, Ben Doak has been on the margins of Liverpool’s first team this season.
Despite not being fully healthy, Ben Doak’s performance for Scotland under-21s has been praised.
The Liverpool winger was electrifying in the youthful Tartan Army’s 1-0 loss to Spain in their first European Championships 2025 qualifying match. Doak harassed the home team during his 77-minute appearance, playing as a striker despite being a natural winger.
After joining the Reds from Celtic last summer, the 17-year-old had a fantastic 2022-23 season, scoring 11 goals and assisting eight times in 27 games at under-18, under-19, and under-21 levels. As a result, he was given five starts for Jurgen Klopp’s team.
Doak has been with Liverpool’s first team all season, coming off the bench in the 1-1 draw at Chelsea on the opening day and going unnoticed in the other three games.
Scotland under-21s manager Scott Gemmill stated that Doak isn’t quite up to speed due to a lack of minutes this season, but waxed poetic over the youngster’s performance.
Gemmill told the Daily Record, “It was an exceptional performance from Ben Doak.” I’d even say there’s more to come from him. He’s not totally match fit at the moment due to his limited minutes for such a fantastic club.
“Imagine a fit Ben Doak!” I felt it was a fantastic performance, and I hope everyone noticed. The players deserve credit for carrying out the game plan. I’m not too disappointed because I’m quite pleased of the players.”
