Serbia’s U21 side are in Norway today for the second leg of their European Championship play-off. With them is Marko Grujic after Jurgen Klopp, who worked so hard to get the player to Liverpool, allowed him to travel late to join up with the U21 squad after injury.
Grujic missed the first leg against Norway, but Serbia managed to win 2-0 anyway, and are now favourites to progress. After sitting out the first match on the bench, Grujic expects it to be different this time, telling Blic: “I still wasn’t fully fit due to the injury that I had, but I expect to be in the starting lineup in the second leg. The decision was solely on the coach Tomislav Sivic, and I hope for a positive outcome.
“I hope I can help a young team qualify for another major tournament because we certainly have the quality for the greatest achievements.”
Whenever Grujic speaks to the Serbian media they’re always keen to know how the 20 year old is getting on at Liverpool under Klopp, and this time the youngster explained: “In Liverpool it’s really excellent despite the fact that I do not have too many minutes spent on the pitch. I’m still in a period of adaptation, I’m trying to watch, learn and remember.
“It is important for young players to learn from the older ones. The team plays very well, which shows in the table position. Competition in the team in the position I play is very tough, but that’s how it is when you’re a Liverpool footballer.”
Grujic certainly doesn’t sound frustrated with his Liverpool situation, and is keen to learn from his teammates and Klopp. The Serbian midfielder may hope for a few more games as the season grows older, with an eye to further involvement next season.
