Scottish media reacts as Liverpool gem Ben Doak makes Scotland debut

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Liverpool loanee Ben Doak had a night to remember on Thursday as he made his debut for Scotland.

The Liverpool forward, who is currently on loan at Middlesbrough, came on in the 71st minute of his country’s Nations League meeting with Poland.

Doak, who joined the Anfield outfit in 2022, gave a good account of himself, though he couldn’t prevent Scotland from losing 3-2 at Hampden Park.

Several Scottish media outlets produced post-match ratings pieces, and the Liverpool talent received some positive feedback.

Scottish media content with how Liverpool loanee Ben Doak did in Scotland debut

The Edinburgh Evening News gave Doak a 6 out of 10 rating for his efforts on the night.

They wrote: “18-year-old was handed his senior international debut after replacing McLean.

“Instantly involved, slipping the ball to Ralston in the lead up to McTominay’s leveller.

“His searing pace caused the Polish backline real problems.”

Likewise, The Scotsman gave Doak 6 out of 10, writing: “A memorable moment as the teen made his international debut.”

Meanwhile, The Herald went with 5 out of 10, writing: “Will have gained immense confidence from his involvement before the second goal.”

READ MORE: Paul Merson says Liverpool player away on international duty is ‘up there’ with Kevin De Bruyne

What have Doak’s Liverpool and Scotland peers said about him?

Doak has been making waves at Liverpool, earning praise from the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Virgil van Dijk.

The former Reds boss said last year, as per the Northern Echo: “Ben Doak, oh my God, it’s much fun to watch these kids.”

Meanwhile, Van Dijk said: “I remember when he came on against Villa away last year, and he did that stepover and went past the full back,

“He’s very exciting, very direct, one-on-one. I call him a Tasmanian Devil with the way he is buzzing around, he’s just so quick.

“If his decision making gets better – and he has all the time in the world for that – then he could definitely be one for the future.”

More recently, Scotland ace John McGinn said: “He’s got a lot of confidence. He’s a good laugh and he’s fitted in well.

“He’s excited to play some games at Middlesbrough and I think he’s ready to contribute for us. I think everyone’s aware of his ability and he’s certainly something different to what we’ve got.”

Sky’s the limit for Doak

At just 18 years of age, Doak is already in double figures for competitive Liverpool appearances, and he even played twice for Celtic before his move to Anfield.

Now, the Reds powerhouse has been capped at senior level for Scotland, and in a competitive game too.

Most 18-year-old footballers tend to be playing for their Under-21s, with a select few being in and around the first team.

Doak is already playing on loan at a Championship club at this age, which is normally something reserved for the upper tier of players at that age.

Liverpool fans will be eager to see how Doak gets on at Boro and, if all goes well, he could be in line for regular game time at Anfield from 2025 onwards.