Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool have spent the past few months adding fresh competition in attack.
Two senior forwards came through the door in the summer, and that instantly raised the standard across the squad.
Young strikers now know they must show something special to earn a look-in.
The bar is high. The pathway is still there, but it is tighter.
At the academy level, the battle is even sharper.
Several teenagers have been knocking on the door, pushing for chances in Premier League 2 and the UEFA Youth League.
Some have stepped up well. Others have been unlucky with injuries at key moments.
Yet the club continues to back its best young talent.
And when a major global brand also shows belief, it tells you the player has something that stands out.
That is the situation Liverpool have watched closely this autumn.
A young forward, sidelined for weeks, has still managed to attract significant attention.
And the news he received this week signals how highly he is rated in football circles.
17-year-old striker Will Wright, joined Liverpool from Salford City in August after a prolific spell in League Two youth football.
His season took a hit when he picked up an injury during the UEFA Youth League clash against Atletico Madrid.
That setback cost him a likely place in the Carabao Cup squads against Southampton and Crystal Palace.
But Wright has now landed a major boost off the pitch.
His agency, Omnisports, confirmed the teenager has signed a new personal deal with Nike.
In their announcement, they wrote, “Nike believes.”
“Will delivers.”
“Congratulations to Will Wright on signing with Nike.”
“A massive moment and another step in his journey.”
“Big things ahead.”
The message sums up how Liverpool see him as well.
The club rate his potential.
He could return before Christmas to feature in the remaining UEFA Youth League games, and the FA Cup in January may offer a chance for a senior debut, depending on the draw.
For now, this Nike deal is a statement.
Liverpool have another serious prospect on their hands, and Wright will feel even more driven to make up for lost time.
Read more: Arsenal duo suffer injury setback on international duty
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