Three Liverpool youngsters capable of breaking into the first-team
In recent years, Liverpool have made major structural changes to ensure a smooth pathway from the academy to the first-team. The appointment of Jurgen Klopp in 2015 provided the Reds with the perfect figurehead for that.
During his time at Borussia Dortmund, Klopp made a name for himself by promoting many young players into the first team. And a majority of the players who broke into the main XI have gone on to become top players.
Into his fourth season at Anfield, Klopp has been working wonders and has transformed the once vulnerable Liverpool team to Champions League winners. In fact, they have been unbeaten in the last 32 games in the Premier League. Although he has the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane and Firmino at his disposal, he has provided ample game time to youngsters.
One player who has reaped rewards under Klopp’s guidance is Trent Alexander-Arnold, who came through the ranks but has now established himself as one of the top full-backs.
With that in mind, here are some youngsters who may break into the first-team in the near future.
Rhian Brewster
Brewster spent much of 2018 on the shelf, having undergone surgery on ankle and knee injuries early in the year. However, he has completed his rehabilitation and is back to full fitness.
An expert finisher whose all-round game developed rapidly with the Under-23s, Brewster is primed for a big step up in the coming years.
Brewster has been forced to settle for game time in the Carabao Cup so far, with his two appearances this season coming against MK Dons and Arsenal. The 19-year-old has been limited to just three appearances on the substitutes’ bench in the Premier League and is still awaiting his first-term bow.
Harvey Elliott
Harvey Elliott became a record-breaker as Fulham’s youngest ever debutant when he appeared for the first-team in the League Cup aged 15 years and 174 days. The 2003-born Londoner started out at Queens Park Rangers before making the move to Fulham’s Academy.
The teenager then became the youngest player to make a Premier League appearance when he came on against Wolves towards the end of last season aged 16 years and 30 days. In the summer, Elliott made a switch to Anfield.
The England Under-17 star is an attacking midfielder, with most of his playing time coming on the right wing. He’s a great dribbler and is very sharp too. After making a handful of appearances, the teenage sensation is capable of lighting up the Premier League in the coming years.
Sepp van den Berg
Sepp van den Berg signed for Liverpool in summer from FC Zwolle. The Dutch teenager has been impressive enough in his limited displays thus far.
A very young prospect, he should be provided with an adequate adaptation period to settle in. With Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip prone to injuries, the teenager could find a place in the first-team if he continues his sumptuous form.
