Liverpool’s academy is not shy of producing some of the best talent in the world. Recently, Rio Ngumoha became the talk of the town when he started showing up regularly under Arne Slot.
Ngumoha did show that the faith put in him was well placed. The 17-year-old went on to score the winner against Newcastle United as a 100th-minute strike helped Liverpool get their three points.
He’s already made six appearances for the first team and is also a part of the UEFA Champions League squad. Ngumoha made his Champions League debut against Atletico Madrid, as this time skipper Virgil van Dijk scored the winner.
Another prospect brewing in Merseyside is Jayden Danns. The 19-year-old has 10 appearances under his belt, scoring in three of those.
Danns got his first big break under Jurgen Klopp and has since frequented the first team even under Slot. While speaking to talkSPORT, Liverpool youth team manager Rob Page had some interesting opinions on both youngsters.
Liverpool wonderkid to be the next England No.9
Rob Page is certain of Jayden Danns walking in the footsteps of Harry Kane (Credits: Imago Images)
Talking about Danns, Page didn’t display an inch of doubt, saying the Englishman will go on to replace Harry Kane in the long run.
“I’ve got Jayden Danns here as well, who’s probably going to be the next England No.9 in years to come”, Page told talkSPORT.
The former Wales gaffer also spoke about Ngumoha, hailing him as a “special talent”, praising his attitude, humility and the ability to perform under pressure.
“He’s a special talent, I’m not going to lie. In high-pressure situations, he manages to step it up; he has such a calmness about him, but what a humble kid, too. First and foremost, I’m impressed by his attitude; he wants to learn every single day, and he doesn’t switch off. ”
Quiz: Can you name these 10 Liverpool players from the 2000s?
Comparing the duo to other academy kids
Page didn’t stop there, as he believes the duo’s attitude has been a major determinant of their success. He compared them to the other academy kids, crediting their families and the academy environment.
“Their attitude is exemplary, they’re a credit to their families and first class. Many kids in academies, you see, they get carried away, but for some reason here, I think it’s their upbringing and the influence of the academy, they’re grounded and very humble people.”
Danns saw a move to Sunderland play out last season. Liverpool sent him on loan, but the 19-year-old couldn’t make a single appearance following a back injury.
