Since making a big money move for Aston Villa last summer, Liverpool striker Christian Benteke has seen his chances severly limited during his first season at Anfield. Despite repeatedly brushing aside rumours that he’ll be looking to leave this summer, the 25-year old has now admitted that he may need to consider his future if he continues to find himself on the fringes of the squad.
“I still have a contract at Liverpool and I’d like to stay there, if I remain in the coach’s plans,” said the Belgian striker, currently getting ready for the European Championships in France with the rest of the Belgium squad. “If that’s not the case, it will become difficult to stay.”
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, who took over for now Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers back in October, used the big-man sparingly during his first year in charge with the 25-year old looking ill-suited to his all action, high pressing style of football. With the likes of a fit again Daniel Sturridge and youngster Divock Origi higher up the depth chart at Anfield, it could be another frustrating year for Benteke if he doesn’t make a move. West Ham United have already confirmed an interest and fellow capital club Crystal Palace are reportedly keeping tabs on his status, but there’s been nothing official as of yet — and there probably won’t be until after the Euros are over with the player himself pushing transfer talk off to one side until this summers showpiece event is all wrapped up.
“When Klopp arrived I saw that I wasn’t in his plans. That was frustrating because I knew that during my first season at Aston Villa he wanted me,” mused the 25-year old. “But we had several discussions together – I respect and I understand his decisions,” he add, before confirming that his future is still under consideration. “I’ll think about if after the Euros.”
