Liverpool’s Will Wright returned from injury with a bang, scoring five goals in an academy friendly after three months out injured.
Wright got his dream move in the summer when he signed from Salford City for £200,000 and played for the Reds in a pre-season friendly at Anfield the next day.
The 17-year-old’s progression took a hit early in the season, though, as he went off on a stretcher from a UEFA Youth League match against Atletico in September.
The knee injury left him sidelined for three months, but he has now been in full training for two weeks and working with the first team ‘a fair bit’, according to strong academy source Lewis Bower.
With the under-21s not having a scheduled ‘competitive’ match between November 7 and January 9, there have been several friendlies organised to keep the players sharp, one against Wright’s former team, Salford.
KIRKBY, ENGLAND - Wednesday, September 17, 2025: Liverpool's Will Wright is treated for an injury during the UEFA Youth League match between Liverpool FC Under-19's and Atletico Madrid Under-19's at the Liverpool Academy. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Their most recent outing was at the weekend against Tottenham, involving all the youngsters not travelling with the first team.
The Reds won 6-2 and Wright scored five, playing up front for coach Rob Page’s side.
The 6’3″ striker was also wanted by Arsenal in the summer, but it was Liverpool who secured the highly-rated forward, who made four senior appearances for Salford at the age of 16.
Given Liverpool’s lack of forward options at the moment due to Alexander Isak‘s injury and Mo Salah‘s presence at AFCON, it is a timely moment for Wright to put himself in the first team frame.
With the Reds to play League One outfit Barnsley in the FA Cup third round on January 12, it could act as a chance to make the senior squad for the first time.
When will Jayden Danns be back from injury?
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Tuesday, September 16, 2025: Liverpool's Jayden Danns during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Liverpool FC and Atlético de Madrid. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Another young forward returning to fitness is Jayden Danns.
The 19-year-old suffered a serious hamstring injury in September, but This Is Anfield understands that he is back working on the grass and due to make a full comeback in the next week.
Given Danns’ recent history of injuries, they will be careful not to rush him back, however. Like Wright, Liverpudlian will be aiming for the Barnsley game to make his next Anfield appearance.
He already has three goals for the first team and has impressed every time he has been called on; injuries are the only thing holding him back.