After 15 years at Liverpool, Leighton Clarkson made the difficult decision to leave the club this summer. The young midfielder cited the lack of contact from the first-team squad as a crucial factor in his departure.
Clarkson had progressed through Liverpool’s academy and was on the fringes of Jurgen Klopp’s senior squad. However, the 21-year-old opted to seek opportunities elsewhere earlier this month.
Joining Aberdeen for an undisclosed fee, Clarkson had previously spent the season on loan at Pittodrie, impressing with six goals and nine assists in 38 appearances.
Speaking to The Athletic, Clarkson revealed that the absence of communication from the first-team players during his loan spell was the turning point that made him realize it was time to move on.
“Since I came up to Aberdeen, I didn’t really hear much from any of them,” Clarkson explained. “And that’s when I knew I maybe needed to move on.”
Clarkson’s decision to join Aberdeen came after a frustrating period that started with a loan spell at his boyhood club, Blackburn. However, the loan was terminated prematurely. And he returned to Liverpool’s under-21 side, missing out on an opportunity to integrate into Klopp’s first team.
When asked if his unsuccessful stint at Blackburn had affected how he was perceived at Liverpool, Clarkson responded, “maybe.”
Liverpool – An Incredible Club acknowledged by the Midfielder
The young midfielder acknowledged that training alongside world-class players became the norm, and he desired to play professional football regularly. His lack of game time during the loan spell at Blackburn created doubts in people’s minds, leading him to choose a new path.
“I had a contract I could have signed [at Liverpool], but I just felt like it was time to move on and go somewhere else and start putting my name out there, rather than going on loan every time,” Clarkson explained. “I’d rather be somewhere where I’m playing week in, week out.”
Clarkson now has the opportunity to establish himself as a key player under the guidance of Barry Robson at Aberdeen. Despite receiving offers with higher financial incentives from other clubs, he chose the Dons as his next destination.
It is disappointing to hear that only a few Liverpool players checked in on Clarkson during his loan spell. Also, considering his regular training sessions with the first team in recent years. However, it is important to note that such gestures are not their responsibility.
Furthermore, it could be argued that constant reminders of Anfield might have led to complacency for a player who was never guaranteed a place in the squad upon his return.
Leaving Liverpool behind, Clarkson looks forward to making a name for himself and grasping regular playing time at Aberdeen. This new chapter in his career offers the chance to develop and showcase his skills on a consistent basis.
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