Liverpool have produced multiple talented giants from their famed academy in recent years. One of the latest additions is Englishman Rio Ngumoha.
The attacker made headlines when he became the youngest player to start a competitive match for the Reds. Ngumoha also made history when he scored one against Newcastle United during stoppage time, scoring one of the latest goals in the league’s history.
Liverpool youth team coach Rob Page talked about Rio to talkSPORT, praising his special talent and the teenager’s ability to step up in high-pressure situations.
“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.”
On the other hand, Page also commended 19-year-old Liverpool striker Jayden Danns, who’s already scored three goals for the senior team. Despite his aptitude, Danns now faces another setback as he might not play for the senior team again this year.
Liverpool wonderkid Jayden Danns’ injury
Rob Page has praised Jayden Danns on multiple occasions (Credits: Imago Images)
Already having picked up an injury while on loan with Sunderland, the Englishman didn’t make a single appearance for the club during his spell.
The striker was called back, but now faces another dilemma as Danns seems to have injured his hamstring this time around. The incident occurred while taking a free-kick for the U21 side against Ipswich Town last month.
Speaking to the Liverpool ECHO, youth team coach Page revealed the seriousness. The setback will push him back months, and it doesn’t seem like a quick fix.
“It could be a couple of months. It’s not going to be a quick fix. It’s a setback for him, but Danns is very positive about everything in life, especially football. If anybody can get through this setback, it’s him without doubt. He has the full support of the medical team and myself, and the staff. He’ll get through it.”
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Rob Page’s previous comments on the striker
Page’s admiration for the no.9 isn’t a secret as the Welsh manager isn’t quiet while talking about Danns. He called Jayden the next No.9 of the England national team while on record with talkSPORT.
“I’ve got Jayden Danns here as well, who’s probably going to be the next England No.9 in years to come”, Page admitted regarding the teenager.
Page also praised both Ngumoha and Danns for their progress and the process they follow. He was proud of the duo’s humbleness and the way their families and the academy had raised them.
“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.”
