Liverpool have chief scout Barry Hunter to thank for securing the capture of centre-back Joe Gomez, according to the Times.
The newspaper reports on its website that Hunter is the main man behind securing the services of the 21-year-old from Charlton Athletic, as he “put in the hard yards to steal a march on Liverpool’s rivals and set in motion” the £3.5 million move three years ago.
The report also adds that Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte was targeted by Liverpool as their second-choice when they were pursuing Virgil Van Dijk.
OPINION
No wonder Liverpool have Hunter to thank – Gomez has been somewhat of a sensation recently in the heart of the defence. He has thrived alongside Van Dijk, and he has arguably become a better player for starring alongside the Dutchman. Nevertheless, without Hunter, the Reds would not be heeding the talent of the young ace right now. It is easy to forget that he is only 21, as he plays with a maturity far beyond his years. Hunter most certainly found Liverpool a gem here, and he will only get better and better as the years progress. Yes, he was only 17-years-old when Hunter pursued him – an age which could be considered a huge risk – but Liverpool are lucky that he recognised the talent that Gomez had so early on. He has deservedly earned a call-up to England, a stage on which he has recently excelled – and he will only prove to be one of Liverpool’s most important players this season if he continues his stellar displays.
