Liverpool’s Lovren praises patient Origi

Divock Origi has had to bide his time at Liverpool this season, and defender Dejan Lovren has hailed the striker’s attitude and hard work after watching him net crucial goals in recent weeks.

The Belgian started the season as third choice striker behind Robert Firmino and Daniel Sturridge, despite an impressive 2015-16 campaign – where he scored ten goals.

But Origi was given a chance against Sunderland last month, and he has since scored three goals in three games – helping the Reds through to the semi-finals of the EFL Cup.

And Lovren praised the 21-year-old for showing maturity beyond his years and ensuring his patience paid off.

Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

“I spoke a couple of times with Divock and it’s a bit like I’m his older brother and he’s listening to me,” he said.

“Actually, he’s amazing, especially for a young player. I can’t believe that I’m saying he’s young because he looks like me, old and everything!

“That’s the right attitude, you need to have patience. I know it’s quite difficult when you are young and you’re not playing.

“You know you need to get the chance, but like I said to him, you need to work hard behind the doors, behind the scenes and you will get the chance, that’s for sure.

“Maybe someone will get injured and that’s the time. [But] if you didn’t work good, then it will be difficult to get in and you will need five or six games to score a goal. But he was working really professionally.”