Ben Doak Shines For Scotland – What Do Liverpool Have On Their Hands? | OneFootball

Doak Shines Against Gvardiol – What’s Next for the Teenager?

Liverpool’s Ben Doak showcased his immense potential with a dazzling performance for Scotland against Croatia in the Nations League, leaving Manchester City’s elite defender, Josko Gvardiol, struggling to contain him. At just 19, Doak’s standout display at Hampden Park is proof of his rapid development and readiness for bigger challenges.

Doak’s Performance Turns Heads

Ahead of his third international start, Doak admitted to feeling pre-match nerves, describing “butterflies” in his stomach. However, those feelings were quickly set aside once the whistle blew. Facing Gvardiol, widely regarded as one of the best defenders in world football, Doak delivered a fearless display.

“I don’t see faces on the park, I just see a kit and a blank face,” Doak explained after Scotland’s 1-0 victory. “I don’t take notice of reputations. I just believe that if I’m good enough to be on the pitch, then I should be up to whoever I’m against.”

Doak’s confidence was evident in his boldness on the ball, with one moment midway through the first half standing out. Positioned near the halfway line, the winger executed a clever nutmeg on Gvardiol, slipping past him with ease. “When I went past him early in the first half, I didn’t realise it had gone through his legs,” Doak admitted. “I just flicked it and hoped it’d come out the other side.”

Stepping Up on the International Stage

After joining Liverpool from Celtic in 2022, Doak’s rise has been steady, albeit with a few setbacks. A knee surgery last December slowed his progress, followed by a summer injury that ruled him out of Scotland’s Euro 2024 squad. Despite these challenges, a loan spell at Middlesbrough has reignited his form, with Doak contributing three assists in his last two Championship matches.

Friday’s encounter against Croatia marked another step forward. Doak played a key role in John McGinn’s match-winning goal and received a standing ovation when substituted in stoppage time. His relentless energy, skill, and willingness to take on Gvardiol repeatedly highlighted his growing maturity as a player.

Croatia’s Peter Sucic receiving a second yellow card just before half-time shifted the match dynamic, allowing Doak more freedom down the right flank. Yet, it was his defensive contribution late in the second half that underlined his all-round ability. Tracking back, Doak dispossessed Gvardiol and sparked the attack leading to McGinn’s decisive strike.

What This Means for Doak and Gvardiol

Doak’s performance has naturally generated buzz among Liverpool fans eager to see if he can break into the first team. The club handed him a new long-term contract in September 2023, signalling their belief in his potential. His loan spell at Middlesbrough, where he has started eight league games, is seen as a crucial part of his development.

Meanwhile, for Gvardiol, the match was a rare setback. The Manchester City defender, signed for £77 million, is accustomed to dominating opponents. Facing Doak, however, highlighted vulnerabilities that Croatia’s coaching staff will need to address.

Next Up For Doak

Doak’s immediate focus shifts to Scotland’s next Nations League match against Poland on Monday. However, his long-term trajectory is becoming increasingly clear. Whether he returns to Liverpool ready to challenge for a first-team spot or attracts interest from other clubs, Doak’s potential is undeniable.

Liverpool’s faithful will be watching closely, hopeful that the young winger’s rise continues. Performances like the one against Croatia suggest that Doak’s star is just beginning to ascend.