Takumi Minamino issued challenge by Klopp after ‘very important’ Liverpool step

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Takumi Minamino has been challenged to make an impact for Liverpool this season – after finally bagging his first goal.

Minamino has had a tough time since his January move from Red Bull Salzburg.

But he netted the equaliser in the Community Shield to finally get off the mark.

After the game, manager Jurgen Klopp branded it a “very important step” for the Japanese playmaker.

And he is now keen to see him kick-on and make his mark in his first full season in the Premier League.

“It was big day for him and us,” Klopp said.

“The only thing he lacked for us was a goal. He’s had some moments and the shape he is in is obviously good.

“The goal was the logical step for him. I am very pleased for him. Very important for us and him to make this step.

“Taki can have an impact, that is why we signed him.

“I don’t want massive pressure on him, there is no need for it. He is a really useful player.

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“He is good in small spaces, first touch exceptional and decision making between the lines is good. He has had to adapt.”

Minamino recently admitted he was frustrated by his failure to play a big part in Liverpool’s first ever Premier League title win.

“We could win the league and I am so happy I could experience that”, Minamino told Super Soccer in Japan. “But I wanted to have goals or assists.

“I pay a lot of attention to them, so it’s regrettable that I couldn’t achieve it.”