Liverpool were left disappointed on Monday night after chucking away a 3-1 lead at Aston Villa.
Although they’re technically playing for nothing for the remainder of the season, the Reds were looking good with five minutes to go at Villa Park.
Ultimately though, mistakes cost them. Unai Emery might have ‘congratulated’ Liverpool after the game, but there’s good reason for the Reds being in Emery’s good books. They completely handed the game back to Villa.
Despite the frustration of conceding two late goals though, there were still positives for Liverpool.
The biggest one of the night was undoubtedly a first Premier League goal for youngster Jarell Quansah. And with Quansah hailed by Jurgen Klopp after the game, his Liverpool teammates were also clearly delighted for the 21-year-old.
Liverpool players praise Jarell Quansah
Quansah’s rise to prominence at Liverpool has been completely unexpected. But as we enter the final game of the season, the England U21 international is now Klopp’s preferred partner for Virgil van Dijk.
And it’s with good reason, too. One costly mistake against Man United aside, Quansah has been completely dependable for Liverpool. Thrown in for the big game against Man City at Anfield, Klopp called his performance that day ‘exceptional.’
Truly, Quansah has looked to have fitted in with the rest of the first-team squad since the very first day of pre-season. And after he took to Instagram last night to celebrate breaking his Premier League duck, his Liverpool teammates rallied around him.
“Proud bro fully deserved,” wrote fellow youngster Conor Bradley, with Harvey Elliott’s “Proud of you bro,” following a similar pattern.
More senior members of Liverpool’s squad were also impressed with Quansah. Van Dijk has been a mentor for the academy graduate and commented with an applauding emoji, while Wataru Endo offered the same with a love heart also attached.
Luis Diaz shared a heart as well, as the Liverpool players shared the love for Quansah.
What does the future hold for Jarell Quansah
Having won over Klopp as a starting centre-back for Liverpool, Quansah’s next challenge is to do it all over again.
As incoming manager, Arne Slot will no doubt have already assessed the players he’ll be taking charge of next season. Quansah should have featured in that.
Although it’s reportedly Liverpool’s priority to bring in a new centre-back, there’s every chance that Quansah will keep his starting berth.
Just as he did last year, the England U21 international has a chance to make his mark in pre-season. Impress Slot early doors, and Quansah can cement his place as Van Dijk’s partner.
Alternatively, there is still something to be said for the youngster to head out on-loan. If Liverpool do make a big signing or Slot simply sees him as a squad player, it might be best for Jarell to head out for regular game time. Either way, this is just the start for him at Liverpool.