Will any of these young stars get the chance to shine for Liverpool this weekend…
Liverpool take on Championship side Bolton Wanderers in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday. With the match falling just three days prior to our League Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea, Brendan Rodgers could take the opportunity to rest some of our more recognized stars.
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If that does prove to be the case, here are five youngster that could step in:
5) Brad Smith
The 20-year-old left-back has plenty of pace and loves to push forward, meaning that he could step in for Alberto Moreno. A more likely scenario is that Jose Enrique will be given a rare chance, but the Australian – who featured against Chelsea in December 2013 – could earn a place in the squad.
4) Jordan Williams
The 19-year-old midfielder made his first-team debut in the League Cup win over Middlesbrough earlier this season. He was also on the bench for the win over Aston Villa last weekend, suggesting that he could be given a chance to impress against Bolton, with the likes of Gerrard, Henderson and Lucas perhaps needing a rest.
3) Jordan Rossiter
Starred in the game against Middlesbrough last year, scoring Liverpool’s opening goal. Is still waiting for his second appearance in a Reds shirt, so must be due here. Still only 17, he has an authoritative presence in the middle of the park that defies his age. We expect big things from him in the future.
2) Sheyi Ojo
An exciting attacking midfielder who has been on the bench a number of times this season, but is still awaiting his first-team debut. Has been playing with the under 21’s for the first time this year, while his talent has also been recognised at international level, with a call-up for the England under-20’s.
1) Jordon Ibe
His excellent first-half of the season with promotion chasing Derby County in the Championship inspired Brendan Rodgers to recall the 19-year-old, who was thrown straight onto the bench for last weekend’s game against Aston Villa, coming on for the final five minutes. A talented and tricky winger in the Raheem Sterling mould, this could be the perfect game in which he can shine.
