Alan Hutton reckons losing Ben Doak to Liverpool is a 'bit of a nightmare' for Celtic with the world his oyster after penning pro terms.
The former Hoops kid has been a standout in the Reds' youth system and earned rave reviews for his displays in the UEFA Youth League campaign. The youngster hit a stunning four goals and four assists - including finding the net against Rangers - and was recently rewarded by Jurgen Klopp with his top team debut in the Carabao Cup.
He came on as a late sub against Derby County and impressed with his direct running style. He followed that up by being named in the squad for the English Premier League win over Southampton but didn't taste further minutes. His meteoric rise continues after Liverpool handed him his first professional contract at the club and former Rangers man Hutton believes he could rack up further first team chances after the World Cup.
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Speaking to Football Insider, he said: “I do not see why not.
“It is purely going to be down to him. I think he has shown he has got the ability.
“But, I think it would be too soon to just throw him into such a pressurised situation. I think Klopp is doing it the right way because there is his opportunity to get minutes and experience.
“He is going to bring him into the first team fold when he sees fit. But he is definitely a talented kid.
“For Celtic to lose him is a bit of a nightmare. He has got plenty of time on his hands there is no need to rush. He has now signed his first pro deal so the world is his oyster now.“
Speaking after Doak's debut, Klopp said: “That’s Ben. His instructions were easy: do what you do all the time. He’s really a lively boy, a smart player, good dribbler, fast, can use both legs.
“He’s good! It was nice to watch, eh? It was really nice to watch, him coming in and immediately a lot of things are obviously natural to him, which is really helpful. I’m pretty sure his family was here tonight. I can remember when I saw the family at the AXA when we signed the boy, how excited everybody was.
“And now having that night, it’s the next step. It’s cool, he showed up, obviously.”
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