Jurgen Klopp has hailed Ben Davies ’ Rangers transfer as a "smart" bit of recruitment.
The defender has signed a four-year contract with the Ibrox club, who have moved quickly to bring him in as a replacement for outgoing Calvin Bassey. Davies looked set to join Celtic 18 months ago, but Liverpool swooped in ahead of the Hoops to sign him from Preston North End to help ease a defensive injury crisis.
However, the 26-year-old didn’t play a single first team game for the Anfield outfit. Stars such as Virgil Van Dijk and Joel Matip returned to fitness, meaning Davies found himself well down the pecking order when Klopp had his usual numbers available. He spent last season on loan at Sheffield United before heading to the Scottish Premiership. And Klopp, despite not playing Davies, praised his character and personality, insisting Rangers have pulled off a masterstroke by landing the left-sided centre back.
“Super move. Very positive outcome,” said Klopp. “Rangers is a fantastic club, a big club. Ben belongs on a big stage for sure. European football as well. This presents a proper opportunity to demonstrate his quality and composure. As a person he’s as good a guy as you could hope to meet.
“It’s a smart piece of recruitment from Giovanni van Bronckhorst, to be honest. Perfect for all parties. He has himself an accomplished defender, who is entering his peak years and whose character is top drawer.
“We wish Ben nothing but the success he deserves and will be following from here as he goes on to make many achievements during the rest of his career.”
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