Neil Danns has paid tribute to outgoing Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for giving son Jayden his breakthrough at the club.
The 18-year-old has made quite an impression since making his debut in the Reds’ 4-1 victory over Luton last week.
But the starlet could not have imagined how the next seven days would pan out, as he came off the bench to help the Reds to victory in the Carabao Cup final over Chelsea.
And if picking up his first piece of silverware in his second-ever senior game wasn’t enough, the forward netted twice in Wednesday’s 3-0 FA Cup win over Southampton to set up a quarter-final clash with Manchester United.
Proud father Danns has heaped praise on the outgoing Liverpool manager for his integration of the club’s academy stars.
But the former Crystal Palace, Leicester City and Bolton midfielder admits that Klopp’s impending exit is a worry for everyone connected with the club and explained what the next Liverpool manager needs to do to ensure the Reds continue to flourish.
“It’s been crazy – as I know and Jayden knows, this is just the start, “ Danns told talkSPORT.
“The hard work begins now, he’s done fantastic to get where he is but it’s just the start and once again, what an absolute legend of a manager Jurgen Klopp has been showing faith in these kids.
“It’s probably a worry for every Liverpool fan [Klopp’s departure], not just in terms of bringing the kids through.
“Anyone looking from the outside can see what Jugren Klopp has done at Liverpool. So I’m sure the owners when they’re doing their research on who to bring in next will fully make them aware that there has been something built and they don’t want anyone coming in and tearing down that good work because it’s been absolutely outstanding.
“So hopefully they pick the right man to come in, which I’m sure they will do and Jurgen Klopp has laid the foundations.”
Reflecting on Klopp’s time on Merseyside, Danns credits the German with creating a winning culture at the club, something he experienced first-hand during Sunday’s win at Wembley.
“When he came in we were battling for the top six,” Danns senior added.
“I don’t think it’s just about the results, it’s about the whole culture of the club. He’s brought the club back together. You can see how at one the club is.
“Even just the fist pumps. I was lucky enough to be there at the final on Sunday and at half-time in extra-time everyone’s standing up and singing You’ll Never Walk Alone. I thought, ‘This is some culture he’s put together’.
“I’m gutted that he’s leaving.”
