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Jurgen Klopp hailed Takumi Minamino’s performance in Liverpool’s 2-1 FA Cup win over Norwich City as the winger’s “best game” for the club.
Minamino scored both of Liverpool’s goals before half-time to help the Reds into the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time since Klopp took over as manager in 2015.
Japan international Minamino has scored three goals in this season’s FA Cup, to add to his tally of four goals in five games from Liverpool’s triumphant EFL Cup campaign.
Klopp acknowledged the 27-year-old’s importance to his side, telling ITV Sport: “Taki is an incredible player – a big part of it tonight was for sure the best game he had for us.
“He played a super game and was a constant threat, kept all the balls. I’m really happy for him.
“Without him we wouldn’t be in the quarter-final, and we wouldn’t have been in the final of the EFL Cup.”
Norwich pulled a goal back through Lukas Rupp in the second half at Anfield, but could not prevent Liverpool from progressing in one of three competitions they are hoping to win in addition to the EFL Cup this season.
Veteran Reds midfielder James Milner echoed Klopp’s sentiments regarding Minamino, describing him as a hugely popular character in the dressing room.
“He’s a great guy,” said Milner. “He’s been patient. There’s competition all over the field but every time he comes in he’s ready and he delivers.
“He’s such a nice guy you’re delighted for him every time he scores.
“Every single day he’s at that level. He’s brilliant in training, great temperament no matter what’s happening, you can rely on him.
“He keeps bagging important goals and I’m absolutely delighted for him to get those two.”
