Kone-Doherty was brought to Anfield from Irish Club Derry City last summer. Since then, the 17-year-old caught the eye a number of times in the underage sides last season.
That has continued into the early part of this year. In a game apiece with the U18s and U21s, Kone-Doherty has two goals and an assist. Good going.
Just like fellow prospect Ben Doak, the Irishman looks to have the makings of a potential future first-teamer. Jurgen Klopp seems to hold that view too, with journalist Keifer MacDonald confirming via Twitter yesterday that Kone-Doherty was involved in Tuesday’s training session.
“Tyler Morton was involved in first-team training at the AXA this afternoon, having not played since April due to a metatarsal injury,” MacDonald reports. “Trent Kone-Doherty, 17, also trained with the seniors after an impressive start to the season with the U18s & U21s.”
Kone-Doherty earns first-team chance
Ever since Kone-Doherty’s arrival at Liverpool last summer, he’s had the look of a future star.
Described as a ‘flying machine’ by the chairman of one of his former clubs [The Athletic], he’s quick, direct and skilful.
Joining at the same time as Doak, and being a similar age to the Scotsman, there are some obvious comparison to draw here.
However, it wouldn’t be fair to expect Kone-Doherty to reach the same levels as Doak has just yet.
Nevertheless, this is the first clear sign that the former Derry teenager is well and truly on Klopp’s radar. If he can keep doing what he’s doing for the underage sides, it won’t be the last time Kone-Doherty is with the seniors this season.
With Europa League football to think about, there should be opportunities there for him if he shows he’s ready to take them. If not, another year developing in the 18s and 21s will do him good regardless.
Another gem to keep an eye on coming through the academy, Reds.
