Liverpool got their pre-season schedule underway on Sunday as they faced Preston North End at Deepdale.
The Reds headed into the summer games under the darkest of clouds as they continue to mourn the late Diogo Jota.
Taking to the field for the first time since Jota’s tragic death was never going to be easy for Liverpool players, as they faced up to life without their teammate.
There were tributes for Jota at Deepdale, with a number of beautiful moments observed from both sets of supporters before kick-off.
Once the game got underway, Liverpool supporters continued to honour their eternal No. 20 by singing his chant throughout the game.
On the pitch, there was lots to excite Liverpool fans, despite the absence of stars such as Florian Wirtz. And one of the most eye-catching during the first-half was teenaged livewire Rio Ngumoha.
Liverpool players including Rio Ngumoha warm up ahead of the pre-season friendly against Preston North End at Deepdale.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Rio Ngumoha catches the eye for Liverpool
Ngumoha has been backed to have a big pre-season after a year of settling into the club following his arrival from Chelsea.
And that began with Arne Slot handing the 16-year-old a start from the left wing against Preston.
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Ngumoha caught the eye straight away, with former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock hailing his impact while on commentary for ITV.
“He’s got that ability in one-v-one situations,” Warnock raved. “He’s very, very comfortable going either way, inside or out. He’s just explosive when he gets on the ball, so dynamic. Liverpool fans are very excited to see his progress over the next couple of years.”
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“It’s that lovely low centre of gravity, he’s got the ability to shift the defender to create that half a yard,” the pundit continued a little later into the half. “The end product will arrive, we’re seeing the quality that he’s got.”
“The one thing you’re thinking as a young player in pre-season is ‘can I leave an impression on the manager.’ Straight away that is what Ngumoha is doing, we’re seeing the quality that he’s got, taking on players making things happen.”
More youngsters stand out for Liverpool
Ngumoha was not the only young player who started for the Reds on Sunday. Trey Nyoni and Luca Stephenson also got the nod from Slot.
Big things are expected of Nyoni, and the young midfielder also showed up well during his time on the pitch at Deepdale.
Stephenson is an interesting prospect too, and after an excellent season on-loan with Dundee United, the 21-year-old started at centre-back.
Having played at right-back for Liverpool last summer and spent the season in midfield at Dundee, Stephenson is slowly building a reputation as a very versatile option for Slot.
Three exciting young players with big futures, getting off on the right foot this summer.