Liverpool are set to allow Ben Doak to complete his loan spell at Middlesbrough this season, with plans to assess his first-team potential during pre-season.
Sources at GIVEMESPORT confirm that the 19-year-old winger remains part of Liverpool’s long-term strategy as they evaluate his readiness for Premier League football.
Doak’s Journey So Far
Doak joined Liverpool from Celtic in March 2022, with the Reds paying a small fee for the then-16-year-old. At Liverpool, he has developed through the club’s renowned youth system and made his competitive debut in August 2023 during a Carabao Cup tie against Bournemouth.
Since joining Middlesbrough on loan, Doak has become an important player for the Championship side, recording one goal and three assists this season. His dribbling ability and creativity have drawn attention from Premier League clubs, but Liverpool are determined to see his loan through to the end of the campaign.
Focus on Development
Liverpool’s management is particularly focused on evaluating Doak’s work in the penalty box. While his dribbling, vision, and creativity have impressed, the club is scrutinising his decision-making and shooting accuracy to determine if he can excel at the top level.
Insiders suggest that Doak is being considered as a potential successor to Mohamed Salah. With Salah’s contract situation uncertain, Liverpool are carefully weighing whether Doak could fill the void or if an external signing will be required. While his skillset aligns with Liverpool’s attacking philosophy, his output in Premier League conditions remains to be tested.
What’s Next for Doak?
Doak will remain at Middlesbrough for the remainder of the 2024/2025 season before returning to Liverpool for pre-season. Under new manager Arne Slot, he will have the opportunity to showcase his growth and make a case for first-team inclusion. Whether as a future Salah replacement or a valuable squad player, Doak’s trajectory at Liverpool remains one to watch closely.
Writer’s View
Ben Doak’s rapid rise through Liverpool’s youth system and subsequent loan success at Middlesbrough underline his immense potential. While his dribbling and creativity are standout attributes, the scrutiny on his finishing and decision-making is justified given the high expectations at Anfield. If Doak can refine these areas, he may well become a significant asset for Liverpool in the coming years. His pre-season performances under Arne Slot could be the decisive factor in determining his future role at the club.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
