Why Liverpool academy sensation must stay grounded after international call-up
COMMENT By Matt Farr
It was announced on Thursday morning that Liverpool academy sensation Ben Woodburn had been called up to the Wales senior international side for their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Republic of Ireland.
The Welsh FA announced the national side’s 23-man squad on their official Twitter account on Thursday morning, with Woodburn earning a role in Chris Coleman’s senior squad for the first time.
The call- up comes as a well-earned reward to the 17-year-old, who has been impressive since making his first team debut for Liverpool in November.
But it is imperative that Woodburn keeps his feet firmly on the ground, because there is still a long way to go for him to reach the top level.
Since making his first senior appearance for Liverpool earlier this season, Woodburn has gone on to make just seven first team appearances, including only three in the Premier League.
It is a promising start for the young winger, but the real test will be how he can handle the international spotlight.
He has previous experience at youth level with Wales, but the senior side is a huge step up in class and quality, and Woodburn must be ready for it.
That is of course, if he makes his debut against Ireland. Coleman has likely included him to give him a taster of life in the senior squad, but he may not get an opportunity on the playing field for a little while yet.
In some cases, Woodburn could be considered lucky to have been included at all, given his lack of regular first-team action for Liverpool.
But he is a player with clear talent, and could follow in the footsteps of many before him and become a Wales international star of the future – much like Gareth Bale.
His form for the Liverpool academy side has been particularly impressive, with six goals and six assists from just 12 appearances.
That is the form that caught the eye of first team boss Jurgen Klopp, which then peaked Coleman’s interest.
However the international circuit is a stage that takes no prisoners, and Woodburn must take the necessary measures to ensure he does not get chewed up and spat back out.
It will take time, but Woodburn will get there.
In the meantime, Liverpool are the real winners as Woodburn gets the sort of experience that money can’t buy.
In other Liverpool news, Leeds have reportedly opened talks to sign this young Reds attacker.
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