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Cape Town - Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has defended the fit-again Naby Keita from criticism after his underwhelming showing against Mk Dons in the Carabao Cup.
Keita was named in the starting line-up for the first time since May 1 but was replaced by Pedro Chirivella on the hour mark in Liverpool's 2-0 third-round win.
Klopp said he had no concerns over his £52 million man and was happy with his contribution after such a long time on the sidelines.
"We don't have to decide it too quick on Naby," Klopp told the Liverpool Echo.
"He looked really good in moments but he has to adapt to the position and you see it with Ox (Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain) as well.
"Naturally you move much more and find each other and that is how it is. In moments you saw what an incredible player he is, but we don't have to rush it now.
"We can use him now and that is good, it is a long season to go and everything will be fine."
- TeamTalk Media
