Advertisement

Jurgen Klopp: I should have been consulted over Ben Woodburn's Wales call-up

Jurgen Klopp: I should have been consulted over Ben Woodburn's Wales call-up

Jurgen Klopp, the Liverpool manager, says he is surprised Chris Coleman failed to consult him over the Wales call-up of teenager Ben Woodburn.

Coleman, the Wales manager, selected the 17-year-old for the latest round of World Cup qualifiers, a decision which has concerned Liverpool’s coaching staff.

READ MORE: Max Allegri WILL NOT replace Luis Enrique, says Barcelona

READ MORE: Gatland considering Farrell for Lions captaincy

Klopp said he was pleased for the youngster but made his reservations public, suggesting it was premature to elevate the player to international level without discussions with his club.

The German coach seemed most perplexed about Coleman not calling him to chat about Woodburn’s progress.

“Actually, I was surprised about this,” said Klopp.

“I don’t know exactly how it’s normal here. This should not be a criticism. But usually when you call up a player, a 17-year-old player, I thought it would be possible to call me. I’m not sure if he knows him well. He didn’t play in the team so far for Coleman I think. Because of the age, it would be better?”

Klopp wants Woodburn to develop at a steady pace, controlling his development, and his main concern is to ensure the Wales manager is on the same page. Although Woodburn has earned rapid promotion for his club, his appearances have been limited to substitute – although he did start in this year’s FA Cup.

“If he stopped learning now, that would make no sense at 17,” said Klopp.

READ MORE: Leicester striker received death threats after Ranieri sacking

READ MORE: Arsenal players want Arsene Wenger to stay - Giroud

READ MORE: 'Ban mid-season sackings' says Gary Neville

“I’m not in doubt about this. We didn’t hide him. We used him all the time. He’s a fixed part of training. He can deal with nomination for Wales 100 per cent. It’s a little bit like my situation. As long as you give me the time, as long as we give him the time, everything will be good.

“He has to learn, he has to develop, he has to improve, all of this. That’s why I said there are now two managers responsible for him. Until now, it was only my job.”