SWANSEA, WALES - Sunday, May 1, 2016: Liverpool's Christian Benteke celebrates scoring the first goal against Swansea City during the Premier League match at the Liberty Stadium. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Christian Benteke wants Liverpool stay – if he’s in Jurgen Klopp’s plans

Liverpool striker Christian Benteke admits he is unsure if he will be at Anfield next season, and will make a decision on his future later in the summer.

The 25-year-old had a frustrating first season with the Reds, following a £32.5 million move from Aston Villa last summer.

Too often he looked out of place in the side, and although 10 goals in 42 appearances was not exactly a disastrous return, his future looks like being away from Liverpool.

Benteke says he is keen to remain on Merseyside though, but only if he features regularly under Jurgen Klopp.

“I still have a contract at Liverpool and I’d like to stay there, if I remain in the coach’s plans,” said Benteke, at a pre-Euro 2016 press conference with Belgium.

“At 25 years old, I’m neither old nor young but it’s important to play.

“If that’s not the case, it will become difficult to stay. I’ll think about if after the Euros.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Thursday, October 22, 2015: Liverpool's Christian Benteke looks dejected after missing a chance against Rubin Kazan during the UEFA Europa League Group Stage Group B match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

“I was prepared for what I went through (last season). I knew that if I had mixed performances I would be criticised. That’s what happened.

“When he (Klopp) arrived I saw that I wasn’t in his plans. That was frustrating because I knew that during my first season at Aston Villa he wanted me.

“But we had several discussions together – I respect and I understand his decisions.”

A summer exit looks likely for Benteke, with Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Roberto Firmino and probably Danny Ings all now ahead of him in the pecking order.

With Klopp potentially bringing in another striker as well, it would appear a move elsewhere would suit both the Belgian and Liverpool.

He is far from a bad footballer, and he has the ability to shine at another club, but he never felt like the right fit at Anfield.

    More from This Is Anfield

    Fan Comments