Liverpool reach emphatic decision on future of 20-year-old – report

Fri 16 June 2017 17:01, UK

By Derek Smithson

Liverpool defender Joe Gomez will remain at Anfield next season, according to a report.

Sky Sports claim that the 20-year-old will stay in the Reds first-team next year after being given assurances about his play time from manager Jurgen Klopp.

It is understood that Brighton were one of the sides interested in securing a deal for the centre-back, but he has decided to stay with the Merseyside club and turned down the possibility of a loan move.

Gomez made just three senior appearances last season under Klopp and was unable to make a single Premier League appearance.

The Englishman moved to Liverpool in 2015 from Charlton and made a positive start by breaking into the first team immediately, but then suffered a 15-month layout due to injury.

He was restricted to cup roles and appearances for the Under-23s since returning to fitness in January 2017, but has been told he is involved in plans for next season.

Football Insider verdict:

Liverpool will be making a smart decision on Gomez as he could make a big impact on the side next season. The Reds are going to need a full strong squad for next year as they aim to compete on both domestic and European competitions. Klopp is not currently blessed with tons of defensive options and bringing Gomez back into contention is a smart move. The 20-year-old showed great promise when he first arrived at the club and was cementing his position in the starting line-up, but his injury has halted his progress. It is important that Liverpool continue to bring through young English talents and Gomez has the potential to be the next star. His versatility of being able to play anywhere across the defence gives him extra value and he should look to play an important role next year.