Why Middlesbrough must sign Sheyi Ojo on loan from Liverpool
According to the report from The Mirror, Middlesbrough have registered their interest in signing Liverpool star Sheyi Ojo for a year-long loan.
Middlesbrough must try to get back to the Premier League following their relegation to the Championship a year back.
The Tony Pulis-managed side are leaving no stone unturned in the ongoing transfer season. With an intention to strengthen their defence, Middlesbrough came up with impressive signings of centre-backs Aden Flint and Paddy McNair. Now, Pulis has set his eyes on Liverpool winger Ojo.
Let’s take a look at the reasons why the prominent club are after Ojo.
Ojo’s noteworthy loan spells with Wolves and Fulham
Liverpool sent out Ojo on loan to Wigan Athletic in February 2015, for whom he played 11 matches. Following his short stay with Wigan, the young lad was loaned out to Wolves. In the 22 matches he played for Wolves, he found the back of the net three times.
But the 2017/18 loan stint with Fulham proved to be a path-breaking one for Ojo as he was an integral part of their squad. He represented the Cottagers in 24 games and scored four goals.
Ojo’s contribution to the team earned them a promotion to the Premier League following their win in the playoffs.
Ojo making the right noise in pre-season
Ojo has been making all the right noise during the pre-season matches. The England U21 star got to don the red jersey in six games, starting in three matches and coming on as a substitute in three.
He went on to get his name on the scoreboard against Tranmere Rovers and Manchester United. With two more friendly matches remaining before the Premier League kick-off, Ojo must try to add more goals under his belt.
Also Read: Why Middlesbrough should beat competition from West Brom to land 28-year-old Icelandic forward
Verdict
Despite having a good run in the pre-season, the chances of Ojo finding a place in the Liverpool starting XI seems to be bleak. The presence of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and recent signing Xherdan Shaqiri, will make it harder for Ojo. Hence, it’s best for Ojo to take a loan move and gain experience rather than warming the Liverpool bench.