Jurgen Klopp says Dominic Solanke does not expect to be fast-tracked into becoming a regular starter at Liverpool despite his England promotion. Solanke was a shock call-up to Gareth Southgate’s squad, particularly given the snub to team-mates Daniel Sturridge and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. But Klopp is working to his own development plan with the 20-year-old.

“Apart from his football skills, his character is absolutely outstanding,” said Klopp. “He is completely calm with the situation. He is doing so well and he will not be disappointed if he doesn’t start at the weekend. He doesn’t feel like ‘roll out the red carpet’; he is a smart lad and someone we will enjoy working with. He has made five, six, seven appearances. He had one game from the beginning, we lost but he did really well. He is really involved, an important member of the squad. That is what he wanted.

“He wants to be closer. He can’t do it all by himself. Sometimes you need a little bit of luck. It hasn’t happened too often but I am really happy to have him here.”

Klopp says he had no concerns about Southgate picking the youngster, despite him never starting a Premier League game. “It was 100 per cent right. It was a situation where a few players were missing but he will be a future player for England, 100 per cent,” he said.

“He has got everything you will need. He has had a number of games but not always the starts. You saw in 15 minutes that he got involved immediately. That is him. And I am happy for him. Next time he is involved it will be no problem. Players like him, Joe [Gomez], Abraham, Loftus-Cheek, they are the future for England. It is cool. If they want to be involved a little earlier or a little later, no problem. He has quality and that is good.”

Solanke featured in the England side that drew 0-0 with Brazil midweek credit: Action Images

Klopp may have to make a defensive change for the visit of Southampton on Saturday as Joel Matip has a thigh issue. Dejan Lovren is on standby, while Sadio Mane and Philippe Coutinho are in contention to start. Adam Lallana could return to the squad but may be held back.

On his own health, Klopp was reassuring. He shrugged off any concerns following a midweek hospital visit.

“I am really completely fine. I told the players that the doctor said the only thing that can kill me is if we lose football games. That’s it,” he said.