Lyon midfielder Tyler Morton has described Jürgen Klopp as “the best coach for my development”. In an interview with Le Progres, the Liverpool Academy graduate highlighted the role his former manager played in shaping his young career.
“He was the best coach for my development. I think at that point I was ready to play. I’m not saying that no one else believed in me, but I think I was ready, and Klopp thought so too,” recalled the 22-year-old.
“He gave me the opportunity to play on the biggest stage for a very big club. He believed in me and allowed me to go out on loan so that I could develop.” Morton made his professional debut on 21st September 2021 in the third round of the Carabao Cup against Norwich. It was the first of 14 appearances during which the Wallasey native earned his first taste of Premier League and Champions League football.
Loaned to Blackburn Rovers for the 2022-23 season, then to Hull City the following one, Morton finally returned to the Mersey in May 2024. The opportunity for him to meet Arne Slot, Klopp’s successor on the Liverpool bench.
The start of a somewhat frustrating new chapter for the Englishman, who “didn’t play as much as I wanted to, even though I was ready.” “It was his decision, and I took it calmly, but I had to find another way,” explained Morton, who made only five first-team appearances last season. “He was very open and honest with me at the end of last season. We talked a lot, and he let me join OL. It was the best decision.”
Now playing for Olympique Lyonnais, where he has quickly been accepted by the supporters and is preparing to experience the Europa League, Morton nevertheless has nothing but positive memories of his time with the Reds. Especially the contribution of the coaches he worked with.
“I will be eternally grateful to Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot, in different ways. They are excellent managers, but also wonderful people. Jürgen just wanted the best for me, he gave me the opportunity to play in big Champions League and Premier League matches. It was a wonderful period, he helped me progress in every way.”
