NEW YORK – The next step for American forward Clint Dempsey in the English Premier League should come at a bigger club than Fulham, says Fox Soccer Channel and former EPL defender Warren Barton.
On Monday’s edition of MLSsoccer.com’s ExtraTime Radio, Barton said that the US international has more than just impressed during his time in England.
LISTEN: Warren Barton on ExtraTime Radio
“Clint has proven himself now and he’s a Premiership player, no doubt,” Barton said. “The link has been Liverpool. With all due respect, Liverpool is a much bigger club worldwide than Fulham are. From Clint’s point of view, to further his career and his understanding of the game, Liverpool would be a great prospect.”
The ex-Newcastle United player praised Dempsey’s ability to regain his place in the Fulham starting XI after manager Mark Hughes took over the club at the start of the season. The Texan has excelled under Hughes, netting six goals in his first 19 games of the 2010-11 season.
Dempsey’s career high in goals at Fulham came last year under manager Roy Hodgson, who moved to Liverpool during the offseason.
“Under Roy Hodgson last season, [Dempsey] was a blue-chip player and always one of the first players on the team sheet,” Barton said. “With Roy Hodgson, he’s got a coach and manager who really respects him and admires him. It can be an ideal making which I’m sure Clint would want to experience.”
After reports surfaced of a $16 million bid for Dempsey’s services by Liverpool, the American’s agent told MLSsoccer.com that overall, “There's interest in Clint, but there are no discussions right now."
Added Barton, “Liverpool is a big club with a great fan base and great tradition and it’s a big honor to play for Liverpool. Fulham will be desperate to keep a hold of him.”
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