Liverpool defender Andy Robertson has tipped young winger Ben Doak to make an impact during his loan spell at Middlesbrough but has also issued a word of caution regarding the 18-year-old’s development.
Doak joined the Championship club on deadline day, leaving Anfield in search of regular first-team football, and he could make his debut for Boro after returning from international duty with Scotland.
Doak, regarded as one of Liverpool’s brightest prospects, has garnered praise from key figures, including manager Jurgen Klopp, who previously called him a “special boy.”
His impressive rise even put him in contention for Scotland’s Euro 2024 squad before an untimely injury—a meniscus tear—sidelined him for 196 days.
The Scottish winger featured in Scotland’s recent fixtures, coming off the bench in their defeats to Poland and Portugal. With his fitness returning, there is optimism that Doak could play a significant role in Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough team this season. However, Robertson has urged fans and pundits alike to be patient with the young player.
“I ain’t gonna put any pressure on the wee man, I love Doaky,” Robertson said when speaking about his young teammate.
“I’ve got a lot of time for him. I can see the quality he’s got at Liverpool. He’s obviously gone out on loan now to Middlesbrough, which will give him so much good experience.”
Ben Doak. Credit: Imago Images
Robertson emphasised Doak’s drive and determination but was careful to temper expectations.
He said: “He’s a hungry individual, he’s very determined to do the best for himself and the team, and that’s important. He’s exciting, but we have to be careful. He’s a young player, he needs to gain experience, he needs to work on things, but the quality he does have is very good, and I think he will have a fantastic career at whatever level that may be.”
The Liverpool full-back added that while Doak has the potential for a great club and international career, it’s crucial not to rush his development.
He added: “Sometimes we get on top of young players far too quickly, and we need to let them grow, be excited, and not get too carried away. I think he’ll be an amazing player for Scotland.”
