It may have felt odd that Jürgen Klopp chose to dedicate some of his programme notes for the Tottenham Hotspur game in midweek to a player that wasn’t going to play.
“I’m not usually a fan of singling people out, but I think Taki Minamino is someone I want to highlight. Taki has been sensational for us since he came. His attitude is of the highest level always. Commitment to improving is total.
“He has had to be patient, and at times, I can imagine that’s been quite difficult. His lack of starting opportunities until now is not because of anything he is not doing well; it’s because the players in his position have been so consistent in their delivery for our club."
The Japan international joined the club in January from Red Bull Salzburg for a fee of £7.25m, but he has had to be patient in waiting for opportunities. The forward has managed three goals and one assist in 14 appearances for the club this season, a run that totals 586 minutes.