How to ensure the success of Liverpool FC will be long-term

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes the club has built a platform for future success by linking key players to long-term contracts.

The new five-year deal from left-back Andy Robertson has allowed him to follow the conventions of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Joe Gomez and Jordan Henderson in the long-term signing of the last 12 months.

Klopp is confident that the core team will not be attracted to other clubs in the years to come.

"In general, it's always good to be able to extend contracts earlier," said Klopp.

"If we can keep these boys together, we are in full development, so that's good news for Liverpool.

"These 17-18 players plus the very young boys is the team of tomorrow. It should be like that.

"It's an investment, the club gave us the opportunity to do it. Really nice.

"Everyone should expect progress. The club gave us a fantastic opportunity to bring exceptional players, to keep exceptional players. My job is to make sure we perform in the field.

"Where will we be in two or three years? I have no idea but the age group is good. This season will not end our development.

"It does not seem like we're going to lose a key player (and) we're building a new training ground, another step into the future."

In the long run, Liverpool will likely offer a professional contract to young Ki-Jana Hoever after turning 17 on Friday, although Klopp said it was not their immediate priority.

The young Dutch international, who has trained at Melwood since last month, became the third youngest player in club history when he made his debut in the FA Cup defeat at Wolves.

"He can sign professional now. If you're 17, life should be really cool, yes? Klopp added to leaders of the Premier League welcoming Crystal Palace on Saturday.

"There are big steps for all these boys. Ki-Jana will be fine, he is really happy in the moment, we have shown him where he will be in the future, he must now do all the steps alone, but supported by us.

"Contracts are not a problem right now. he had many reasons to join us. The boys are here and now we are working with them.