Liverpool’s Belgian striker Divock Origi has spoken about the role he has appeared in for Jurgen Klopp’s Reds in recent weeks.
The former Lille player has started just three games in the Premier League this season, however, he has begun to be used more from the bench by Klopp in recent weeks.
No-one will forget Origi’s 96th-minute winning goal in the derby at Anfield in early December after coming on as a late substitute.
Origi also scored Liverpool’s third goal in the 5-0 win over Watford in February. He played the last half hour of the 0-0 draw with Everton at Goodison, was a late substitute in the memorable win at Bayern Munich and got another 20 minutes game-time in the 2-1 win at Fulham in The Reds’ last game.
Origi showed his understanding of the need to be a squad player for Klopp’s team this season. Speaking in an interview in the official LFC magazine, he said:
“It is a squad game and, like I have always said, I try to shine my light whenever I get my opportunity.
“I focus on what I can do to help the team in whatever capacity that is. I just have to stay positive. I know that we have big goals so whatever role I am asked to play, I am happy to do that.
“Of course I am ambitious and I want to play as much as possible but the most important thing is our team and the team goals.”
The Belgian international was then asked about playing on the left of the front three, a position Klopp often deploys him in.
“I loved that role. Even in the youth teams, I used to play up front and on the wing so I’m comfortable in both positions. People have maybe seen me more up front in the last couple of years but I totally love it on the wing as well.
“I enjoyed linking up with Sadio and Mo [against Watford] but of course they are top players which makes it easier for me and I think it was just about having fun. Being an offensive player, I like it when I have space in front of me. That’s always good and I think we turned in a really good performance that night.”
As Liverpool continue to battle for the Premier League title and the Champions League, there is an increased likelihood that more of the fringe players will be called upon over the next eight weeks or so.
Origi is already a popular player among the Anfield faithful thanks to his work-rate and attitude as well as that derby-winning goal, of course.
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