On this day in 2014, Liverpool signed Serbian ‘wonderkid’ Lazar Markovic for a hefty fee of £20,000,000.
Fast-forward two years and Liverpool have signed a pacey, more proven Premier League winger in Sadio Mane for an even heftier price tag.
With the Senegalese-born attacker definitely a starter in Jurgen Klopp’s plans; where does that leave our man Markovic?
There was already stiff competition for places at Anfield and now with the addition of Mane, Markovic may need to look away from Liverpool for playing time.
His recent loan at Fenebarche showed glimmers of promise, but then again, so did his first season at Liverpool. His campaign away from Merseyside was unfortunately ended by an injury back in February, after just 20 appearances and two goals.
Markovic has the potential to go all the way; he just needs the right people to help him progress. These people were definitely not in Turkey.
Liverpool would be able to recoup a large chunk of the fee they paid for him if they were to sell him. The Serbian has shown, even at a young age, he is able to play football at the highest level, both internationally and at club level.
His finishing is questionable but his work rate is second to none. He is good with his feet as well as clever, adopting a skillful approach to his game. regular for the national team, the forward still has a promising future ahead him, one which hopefully lies at Liverpool.
A loan to a Premier League club would be best for both parties, allowing Markovic more time to develop as well prove he can play in England. With fans still eager to see him in a red shirt, the higher powers may have different ideas.
One thing these same fans have learned under the reign of Fenway Sports Group is money talks. It just happens to be everybody else’s money.
Under Klopp, Liverpool’s number 50 could flourish into the world beater he was once touted to be. The manager has already shown how he can improve the form of players who are playing well below the required standard (see Roberto Firmino and Divock Origi). Markovic could join this category if he gets his chance, but unfortunately, I don’t think FSG are willing to wait.
