Leighton Clarkson’s Departure From Liverpool: Exploring the Reasons Behind His Move
Leighton Clarkson left Liverpool after 15 years this summer, and he explained that a lack of contact from the first team convinced him to go. The 21-year-old has joined Aberdeen for an undisclosed fee, and he spoke to The Athletic about his decision to move on. In this article, we explore the reasons behind Clarkson’s departure from Liverpool.
Background on Leighton Clarkson
Leighton Clarkson is a 21-year-old midfielder who progressed through the Liverpool academy to the fringes of Jurgen Klopp‘s senior squad. He spent the previous campaign on loan at Pittrodie, with six goals and nine assists in 38 appearances. Liverpool were ready to offer him a new contract, but Clarkson decided to move on earlier this month.
Lack of Contact From First Team Prompted Move
Clarkson revealed that silence from the first-team squad while he was away on loan was “when he knew” he should leave. He said: “Since I came up to Aberdeen, I didn’t really hear much from any of them. And that’s when I knew I maybe needed to move on.”
Frustrating Loan Spell at Blackburn
Clarkson’s initial switch to Aberdeen a year ago came after a frustrating campaign that began with a loan to boyhood club Blackburn and ended back with the Liverpool under-21s. He had made only seven appearances for Blackburn before the deal was terminated early. He was disappointed not to be integrated back into Klopp’s first team, and when asked whether he felt his failed stint at Ewood Park altered perceptions of him at his parent club, the answer was “maybe.”
Decision to Move On Despite Other Suitors
Clarkson chose to join Aberdeen despite other suitors “offering more money.” He said: “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. I’d rather be somewhere where I’m playing week in, week out.”
Analysis: Why Silence From First Team Could Be Beneficial
It is disappointing, in a way, to hear of so few Liverpool players checking in on Clarkson while out on loan, given he had trained regularly with them in recent years. But that is, of course, not their job. And it could be argued that reminders of Anfield would have seen complacency set in for a player who was never guaranteed a place upon his return.
Conclusion
Leighton Clarkson’s departure from Liverpool after 15 years was undoubtedly a difficult decision for the young midfielder. But his lack of contact from the first team squad while he was away on loan convinced him that it was time to move on and start putting his name out there. His decision to join Aberdeen despite other suitors offering more money shows his commitment to playing regular football, and it will be interesting to see how he fares with the Dons this season.