Jurgen Klopp has already given full debuts to Ovie Ejaria, Ben Woodburn and Trent Alexander-Arnold this season, but last term – the real breakthrough youngster was Sheyi Ojo.
Sadly, injuries have scuppered the 19-year-old’s chances so far this campaign, but he played against Arsenal Under-23s recently and scored a lovely goal to help us win 3-2.
Interim Liverpool Under-23s coach Mike Garrity has explained the three things Ojo must do to convince Klopp he’s ready for more first-team opportunities.
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First, he needs to get fit enough to play the full 90.
Second, he needs to be more direct in possession and take on his fullback at every opportunity.
Lastly, Ojo needs to contribute as much off the ball as on it, and work tirelessly defensively.
“For an hour Sheyi looked dangerous,” Garrity told the Echo.
“He’s powerful and quick, and is at his best when he’s running with it. He tired in the last 20 minutes and got a bit of cramp.
“He can frighten defenders but he’s been told that he needs to be more positive and direct in one v one situations to cause defenders problems.
“He needs to be effective and prove he’s working for the team both with and without the ball if he’s going to impress Jurgen Klopp.
“It will take time after so long out but that first-half performance will stand him in good stead with the manager.”
Ojo’s chance in the first-team will likely come in January. Not only is Sadio Mane heading to the AFCON with Senegal, but we’ve got the early rounds of the FA Cup to navigate and two EFL Cup semi-final legs to play.
The flyer must stay fit, motivated and he’ll get his opportunity.