Ever since Divock Origi made himself the hero yet again with a late winner against Wolves, all and sundry have been quick to laud the Belgian’s desire to sit tight at Liverpool.
Seemingly content with the role of super-sub and occasional knight in shining Red armour, the 26-year-old earned Jurgen Klopp’s side a vital three points in stoppage time at Molineux at the weekend.
That strike added to iconic goals against Everton, Newcastle, Barcelona and the small matter of icing a UEFA Champions League final victory cake.
Putting together a team of the week for BBC Sport, former Premier League striker Garth Crooks found space for Origi following his latest exploits.
A player cannot survive by goals alone – not if you want to play regularly for Liverpool you can’t. Divock Origi is as good a finisher as I’ve seen. I sat in disbelief when he came on against Spurs in the Champions League final and scored one of the best goals I’ve seen taken in such circumstances. To have the capacity to remain at a club when you have that finishing ability speaks volumes about the manager and your teammates. Origi never complains about being on the bench but always seems the most dangerous man on the pitch when he’s called on by his team.
Crooks went on to suggest that the 31-cap ace will be a ‘popular’ member of the Reds’ dressing room before also including Mohamed Salah in the best side from the weekend’s action.
So far this season Origi has scored four and provided two assists in nine appearances across all competitions.
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Outstanding, yet again.
Unfortunately, it would appear the lifespan of Origi on Merseyside could be heading steadfast towards its conclusion.
Despite being ‘very likely’ to start against AC Milan, Klopp has begun suggesting the Belgian could be moving onto pastures new in the near future.
Valued at £10.8million and out of contract at the end of the season (Transfermarkt), whilst a January sale would make financial sense, given the departure of Sadio Mane and Salah to AFCON, Origi will become increasingly important.
Therefore, a departure as a free agent seems the most likely outcome next summer.
