‘Oh, my word‘ – Michael Owen wowed by ‘exceptional’ Liverpool youngster who can smash all records
Michael Owen believes Liverpool have one of the best young talents at the club who could produce a memorable breakthrough season at Anfield.
Liverpool have started the season with four wins from four in the Premier League, though needed a Mo Salah penalty to beat Burnley last time out.
The Reds began their Champions League campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid, and they’re hoping to reclaim the trophy they last won in the 2018-19 season.
Alexander Isak signed for Liverpool for £125million in the biggest purchase of the window, but Arne Slot could already have a star at the club ready to make an impact.
Michael Owen delivers Rio Ngumoha verdict
Rio Ngumoha scored the winning goal at Newcastle on matchday two and, during pre-season, showcased the ability he possesses to the Liverpool support.
After Liverpool sold Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, and didn’t replace him, Ngumoha has earned more opportunities to be a part of the first team squad this season.
Former Liverpool striker Owen thinks Ngumoha will not be feeling the pressure playing for the club.
“I don’t buy into the pressure and things like that. These are young lads coming in, they’re exceptional at what they do,” Owen said.
“They go out onto the pitch and just love playing football. I can guarantee you they don’t go to bed thinking, oh my word, I’m, you know, 60,000 people are going to watch me. What am I going to do? It’s not like that.
“People think there’s lots of pressure. It’s not. It’s great.
| Rio Ngumoha | Stats |
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 4 |
“It’s great fun. You’re playing with great players and the prize is big.
“So, listen, he’s gonna be protected right the way through his career, or certainly in the early stages of his career, but what a lovely talent.
“It’s great to see him starting so well, and let’s hope he can continue.”
Liverpool’s youngest champions league debutants
Trey Nyoni was Liverpool’s youngest-ever appearance maker in the Champions League when he played for the club against PSV in January, only months ahead of Stefan Bajcetic.
But after coming off the bench for the final 16 minutes of their win over Atletico Madrid, 17-year-old Ngumoha is now the youngest player to appear for Liverpool in the competition.
Meanwhile, it took Owen until the age of 21 to make his Champions League debut all those years ago, with Liverpool’s young winger threatening to reach even greater heights.