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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp unimpressed Chris Coleman did not contact him over Ben Woodburn call-up

Klopp has stressed that both managers are equally responsible for the teenager's development, with the youngster recently promoted to the senior international squad by Coleman

Tuesday 21 March 2017 13:11 GMT
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The teenager is set to win his first international cap aged just 17
The teenager is set to win his first international cap aged just 17 (Liverpool FC via Getty )

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is "surprised" that Wales coach Chris Coleman did not consult him over the call-up of 17-year-old striker Ben Woodburn, suggesting both managers are equally responsible for the teenager's development.

Woodburn, who has previously represented Wales at youth level, was promoted to the senior squad by Coleman ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Ireland on Friday.

Klopp believes Woodburn's selection has come too early with the player only making his first start for Liverpool in January.

"Actually, I was surprised about this. I don't know exactly how it's normal here," the German told British media.

"This should not be a criticism, but usually when you call up a player, a 17-year-old player, I thought it would be possible to call me.

"He has to learn, he has to develop, he has to improve, all of this... there are now two managers responsible for him."

Coleman, whose Welsh side are currently third in Group D of the UEFA zone qualifying stage, said Woodburn was ready to take a step forward in his international career.


 Coleman did not contact Klopp 
 (Getty)

"If I thought it was too early for him I wouldn't have called him up, because this game is massive for us," Coleman told the reporters.

"I am thinking about what is the best squad to get together to meet this next challenge. And Ben has done enough."

The winners of the nine European groups will progress to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, while the eight best runners-up enter a regional playoff round to compete for UEFA's remaining four places.

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