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Jurgen Klopp ‘surprised’ Wales boss Chris Coleman did not call him regarding Ben Woodburn

Ben Woodburn and Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool v Leeds United, EFL Cup
Image: Jurgen Klopp was 'surprised' not to get a call from Chris Coleman about Ben Woodburn

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp admits he was "surprised" that Chris Coleman did not contact him over Ben Woodburn being called up to the Wales squad.

The 17-year-old striker, who has previously represented Wales at youth level, was promoted to the senior squad by Coleman ahead of their World Cup Qualifier against the Republic of Ireland on Friday, live on Sky Sports.

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Woodburn has made three Premier League appearances for the Anfield side after being handed his debut by Klopp in November last year, but the German says his call-up to the Wales squad means there are now two managers responsible for the teenager's development.

"Actually, I was surprised about this. I don't know exactly how it's normal here," Klopp said.

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"This should not be a criticism, but usually when you call up a player, a 17-year-old player, I thought it could be possible to call me.

"He has to learn, he has to develop, he has to improve, all of this... there are now two managers responsible for him."

Ben Woodburn has broken Liverpool's record, previously held by Michael Owen
Image: Woodburn has been called up to the Wales squad

Coleman, whose Welsh side are third in Group D as they look to qualify for the World Cup in Russia in 2018, said Woodburn was ready to take a step forward in his international career.

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"If I thought it was too early for him I wouldn't have called him up, because this game is massive for us," Coleman said.

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Chris Coleman says he is confident 17-year-old Liverpool striker Woodburn is prepared to step up after including him in his latest Wales squad

"I am thinking about what is the best squad to get together to meet this next challenge. And Ben has done enough."

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