Liverpool defender Sepp van den Berg has been speaking about his loan move to Schalke and why he turned down Championship duo Burnley and Blackburn Rovers.
The youngster had a positive loan spell with Preston North End in the previous two campaigns, making over 60 appearances for the club and scoring twice in all competitions. He's so far made just four first team appearances for Liverpool, but was still the subject of transfer interest from a number of clubs this summer.
The ECHO understands Liverpool were cautious about sanctioning a move for the 20-year-old early in the transfer window following injuries to Joel Matip and Ibrahima Konate. He was on the bench for the Reds' games against Fulham, Crystal Palace, Manchester United and Bournemouth.
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At the end of last month, the decision was made and Van den Berg signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool and completed the move to the Bundesliga on loan. He's now opened up on his decision to join Schalke and why he favoured a move to Germany.
“To be honest, I already knew during pre-season that I would be loaned out," he said in an interview with Dutch magazine ELF Voetbal. "The chance of playing time at Liverpool is of course small.
“It was nice that I was on the bench for four more games in the Premier League this season. But I learn the most when I play. Over the last year-and-a-half I gained a lot of experience at Preston North End in Championship. Just look at my shoulders! I have gained 10 kilos, only muscle mass.
“Another year in the Championship was not my preference. I spoke with Burnley, but I still wanted a step higher. The Bundesliga was my preference. I estimate the Bundesliga a step higher and Schalke is of course a people's club in everything. It lives in all forms.
"Sixty thousand plus spectators in the stands every game, supporters travel everywhere with them and Schalke also gets a lot of attention in the media. As a child I once sat in the stands with my father. Wonderful to experience. It was also closer for me. The decision was made in no time. My first three duels here for the club have proved me right so far."
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