Ben Doak has shared how Arne Slot played a pivotal role in his decision to join Middlesbrough on loan this season.
The 18-year-old expressed that it feels “strange” to hear compliments from prominent figures at Liverpool.
Doak made an impressive impact in his first start for Boro, scoring his debut goal in senior football during the 2-0 Championship victory over Stoke City at home on Saturday.
Doak, who was signed by Liverpool from Celtic for £600,000 more than two years ago, made his first-team debut with the Reds in November 2022.
However, his opportunities were limited last season due to injury.
The Scotland international revealed that Slot approved his move to Teesside after evaluating him during the summer training program.
“I went on the pre-season tour with Liverpool, had a good time, got some minutes for the first time since my injury last year and I think I made a good impression before the injury, so I had a few clubs with eyes on me,” said Ben Doak.
“The club helped me pick as well and I watched a few Boro games and I knew a few of the lads here.
“I didn’t think there was a much better place than the Boro, especially to be honest the amount they have the ball on the right-hand side and the team just naturally caters to my game.
“The club (Liverpool) helps you narrow it down, then you speak to the gaffers and then just pick the team that takes your fancy and Arne Slot obviously approved of the choice.
“He said Michael’s team play really good football, he’s got the team playing really well.”
“It is a strange feeling,” added Doak.
“It doesn’t even feel real, you don’t even react to it because you can’t even believe they’re saying it.
“I guess it’s good to be that way because it keeps your feet on the ground.”
Asked if he’d had any recent messages from Klopp, Doak replied: “Er, no, I don’t think he’s got my number.
“But I had some great times under him and some of the most memorable moments of my career so far came under Jurgen.”
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