Jurgen Klopp admits he hadn't intended for Curtis Jones to take Liverpool's decisive penalty on a remarkable Carabao Cup night at Anfield.
Jones struck the winning spot-kick in front of the Kop to secure a 5-4 shoot-out success after an incredible 5-5 draw against Arsenal in their fourth-round tie.
The 18-year-old, one of six Liverpool players making their home debut, had been introduced 10 minutes into the second half for the injured Naby Keita.
And Klopp revealed how an unexpected change in order had given homegrown talent Jones his big moment for his boyhood club.
“You need to be born as Liverpool, probably, to do that,” said the Reds boss.
“It was not my idea. I looked and saw the list and he was fourth on it. Divock was on number five, he was on number four.
“Then I saw Divock walking to take number four and I thought 'oh... okay! They’ve changed!' A good situation.
“Curtis has no issue with self-confidence. Absolutely he doesn’t struggle with that!
“It’s nice, absolutely nice. I am really pleased for him.”
Jones was given the opportunity to score the winner after goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher had earlier saved a penalty from Arsenal substitute Dani Ceballos.
And Klopp added: “I’m really pleased for Caoimhin for saving the penalty and for Neco (Williams), who played an incredible game, he gives the assist to Div’s goal.
“Caoimhin for 90 minutes, being there. He’s conceded five goals, maybe he can’t do a lot about the situations. First goal was offside, second goal could have looked different but when you lose the balls in the areas we did.
“Sepp van der Berg played an incredible game but it is not easy when you concede five goals. You try to keep on track, play football and pass the ball. I’m really delighted."
