- Neil Critchley not surprised by Ovie Ejaria’s stunning solo effort
- Claims midfielder produces similar moments every day in training
- Ejaria scored excellent goal in U23s win over Newcastle
- SEE MORE: “He has everything you need”- Klopp tips LFC man as future England star
Neil Critchley has challenged Ovie Ejaria to replicate the quality he showed for his stunning solo goal in a recent win over Newcastle.
The attacking midfielder played an intricate exchange with Liam Millar before producing some remarkable footwork and slotting home from close range to secure a 2-1 win for Liverpool’s U23s.
It marked the latest in a flurry of standout performances from the 20-year-old, who has thrived in his No.10 role so far this season.
Critchley admits the goal was something he and his fellow coaches have come to expect from Ejaria.
“We were not surprised… but just surprised he doesn’t do it more often because he shows it pretty much every day in training,” the U23s manager told Liverpoolfc.com.
“He has these real ‘wow’ moments which just make you smile because it’s brilliant to watch. We are on at Ovie all of the time to try and produce more of that and get closer to their goal, get more goals and assists.”
“That will make more people stand up and take a bit more notice of him because sometimes you can under the radar a little bit even with the ability that he’s got, but Ovie is a top player.”
“He has played in our first team, which shows you what our manager thinks of him, and I’m sure he will get back there again.”
Ejaria was also on target in the young Reds’ recent win over Manchester United, brushing aside his marker before finding the far corner with a clinical strike from inside the box.
The Englishman made his first-team debut this season and will be eyeing up the chance to capitalise on Jurgen Klopp’s commitment to introducing the club’s youth prospects.
Recent months have been a reminder of the value of goals and assists in standing out and drawing the attention of the powers above.