Jurgen Klopp says Takumi Minamino's "time will come" at Liverpool but admitted the Japanese forward will have to make do with a back-up role for now.
Minamino has rarely featured for Liverpool since joining the club in January.
So far this season he has clocked up just 57 minutes of Premier League action, while playing a bit-part role in cup competitions.
It seems now would be an ideal opportunity for Minamino to gain some extra minutes amid Liverpool's ongoing injury crisis, though his latest performances have done little to convince his boss.
However, Klopp insists chances will come for the £7.25million signing, but only when he forces his way past those ahead of him.
“There is no dip in form," Klopp told Liverpool’s official club website. "Taki is training well. [On Monday] he was exceptional, for example.
“It’s just a strong team, and offensively – thank God – we didn’t have the same problems as the other positions."
Liverpool have a number of injury problems in defence and midfield, but Klopp's attackers have largely kept a clean bill of health, bar Mohamed Salah's one-match absence due to coronavirus.
“It’s hard to get in this team – that’s how it is. But no dip in form, just a challenge," Klopp continued.
“Bobby [Firmino] plays like 12 instruments in our orchestra, he’s very important for our rhythm.
“We can play well without him as well, [and] Taki is a sensational boy and a great player, so he will face that challenge.
“His time will come, no doubt.”
Minamino may get more chances to impress should Liverpool seal their passage to the knockout stages of the Champions League on Wednesday.
The Reds need just three points to book themselves a place in the last-16 with two group games to spare.
Should Minamino be given more playing time? Have your say below.
And the 25-year-old may be buoyed by Klopp's words in his programme notes for the Anfield clash.
"It is so important that every player recognises their importance now and acts to look after themselves the best they can," Klopp said.
"In this season, more than any other, every member of our group will play a role if we are to achieve anything.
"It has always been the case with us, but the circumstances around us in this moment makes it even more so.
"As difficult as it has been recently, it does present an amazing opportunity."
