Liverpool v Shrewsbury Town: Three Reds to look out for
Shrewsbury take on Liverpool at Anfield this evening knowing they'll have a great chance of making it into the FA Cup fifth round - up against a very young Reds' side.
But who should Salop look out for? Here are three Liverpool players who could cause Town problems...
Ki-Jana Hoever
The 18-year-old Dutchman, while not the most physically imposing of centre-halves, is as assured as they come with the ball at his feet.
Jurgen Klopp has described him as ‘confident’ and a ‘joy to watch’ on the back of many assured displays for Liverpool’s youngsters.
He made his debut against Wolves in the FA Cup in January of last year and signed a long-term professional deal last July.
Hoever also scored against MK Dons in the League Cup earlier this campaign and should have a bright future in the game. A cool head at the back for the Reds.
Leighton Clarkson
Looks every bit an 18-year-old with his lean, 5ft 7in build.
But Clarkson is not one to shy away from the ball.
Against Wolves Under-23s last week, when it finished 2-2 at Molineux, he could often be found breaking forward from the middle of the park and getting shots off.
He will happily take free-kicks and have pot shots from range as well.
Clarkson, who will likely line up alongside Pedro Chirivella and Jake Cain in midfield, is combative and creative – and one to be wary of at Anfield. Attack-minded.
Joe Hardy
The 20-year-old striker only joined Liverpool last month after bagging 40 goals in 80 games for Brentford’s B team.
And he has already made his presence felt in their under-23s, scoring twice in two Premier League 2 appearances under Neil Critchley.
Hardy also found the net in the Premier League International Cup stalemate at Wolves.
A talented finisher, he will look to create opportunities through his tenaciousness – a willingness to close down defenders and then run at them when on the ball. Very busy.
