Liverpool legend Steve McManaman talks about wanting the youngsters to play as much as possible
The original Macca, Liverpool icon Steve McManaman, now in an advisory role with the club’s academy, spoke about wanting the recent influx of the youngsters in the first-team to play as much as possible.
The likes of Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, Bobby Clark, James McConnell, Jayden Danns, Lewis Koumas and other stars out on loan including Tyler Morton, Fabio Carvalho and Owen Beck have been playing extremely well and long may it continue. Speaking of the talents, here is what McManaman had to say via ECHO:
“I want Jayden Danns to play 100 games for Liverpool,”
“I want Louis Koumas to play 100 games for Liverpool.”
“Playing one game and two games, the amount of people we’ve seen play one game for Liverpool, two games for Liverpool, three or four games for Liverpool, and then move on to different clubs.”
“You want to see these kids play 100 games. That’s the next step for them, 50 games and 100 games. It’s the next thing for them, not just one game here and move on.”
“You want them to make a career at Liverpool Football Club if possible. It’s going to be difficult, but that’s what you want them to do in the end.”
All of these players have stepped up exceptionally well in the absence of first-team regulars like Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Diogo Jota among others. It is important to trust your academy and the youngsters within the squad, which will help the club save loads of money while also helping the players make their way onto the biggest of stages and leave their mark there.
Can’t get any truer, no?
McManaman’s sentiments were clear: he wants to see the young prospects firmly establish themselves at Liverpool, not just as fleeting appearances but as mainstays in the squad. He highlighted the trend of players making a handful of appearances before moving on, emphasising the need for sustained involvement and contribution.
The goal, according to McManaman, is for these budding talents to rack up not just a few games, but a significant number – ideally, reaching milestones like 50 and 100 appearances for the club. He stressed the importance of nurturing a culture where players can forge long and fruitful careers at Liverpool, rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere after brief spells.
Indeed, the emergence of these young players has been a boon for Liverpool, particularly in the absence of key first-team regulars. Each and every player has contributed in a way Alex Inglethorpe and Co. can be proud of themselves. The players’ contributions have not only showcased their individual talent but also demonstrated the depth and strength of Liverpool’s youth system.
As Macca rightly points out, the journey doesn’t end with a solitary appearance or two; it’s about building a legacy and a lasting impact at Liverpool Football Club. While the path ahead may be challenging, we hope that these talented youngsters can carve out successful careers wearing the iconic Liverpool jersey.
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As they continue to seize their opportunities on the pitch, the Reds’ faithful can look forward to witnessing the next generation of Reds heroes making their mark on the footballing world.