Fans are reacting to Liverpool's latest announcement after the Premier League champions confirmed a new U21 head coach following the departure of long-serving manager Barry Lewtas.
Earlier this month, the influential Lewtas stepped down from his role with the U21s following a 12-year spell.
The players to have worked under Lewtas included Curtis Jones, Conor Bradley, Tyler Morton and Jarell Quansah, while Harvey Elliott enjoyed his spell with the 44-year-old before making his first-team debut in 2019.
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A few weeks after departing and Liverpool have appointed former Wales manager Rob Page as his successor.
Page, who led his nation to the last 16 at Euro 2020, also helped Wales qualify for the 2022 World Cup, which was their first appearance at a World Cup since 1958.
Before his four-year stint in charge of the national team, he spent time managing Port Vale and Northampton Town before helping the younger generation progress in his role as coach of Wales’ U21.
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Alex Inglethorpe, who is Liverpool's academy director, opened up on the club's decision to appoint Page.
“Rob brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to a key role as young players look to bridge that gap from Academy prospect to first-team footballer," he told Liverpool's official website.
“His recent achievements in guiding Wales to the last 16 at Euro 2020 before qualifying for the 2022 World Cup speak for themselves but perhaps less heralded is the work that took place during his time in charge of the national team, which saw numerous pathway players make it into the senior squad.
“This is something we have seen first-hand at Liverpool with several of our Academy players making significant progress on the international stage under Rob’s guidance.
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“This level of experience in transitioning young footballers towards the professional game and on to the highest levels of domestic and international football will be a significant resource for all at the Academy, especially the players.
“Myself and all the staff are greatly looking forward to working with Rob as we endeavour to continue producing players capable of playing at the highest level and in the most demanding of arenas.”
Here's how fans have reacted to Page's somewhat unexpected arrival.
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One fan wrote: "Rob Page took Wales to their first ever World Cup in 64 years. Now he’s set to become the head coach of Liverpool’s U21 side. Another brilliant appointment."
A second said: "It's a top appointment considering Rob Page's success with the Wales national team a few years ago and obviously Barry Lewtas' long-serving tenure as Liverpool's U21 head coach. A positive move for all parties involved so I'm very happy with this."
A third commented: "How has this happened then," and a fourth said: "Love this. Massive appointment."
A fifth added: "This isn’t the appointment we were looking for atm, but nevertheless, what an appointment that is from the club."
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Thoughts on the appointment? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, Arne Slot
Jack Kenmare