Liverpool have begun a cordial new tradition for their first-year scholars, with Josh Abe among the initial group to receive commemorative caps.
It was back in May that Liverpool’s first-year scholars for the 2026/27 season signed their deals at the club.
What is a momentous day for any youngster became even more memorable thanks to Liverpool beginning a new tradition.
Club legend Kenny Dalglish was on hand at Anfield to present 12 talented youngsters with commemorative caps, made by the same company that provides England caps.
Why our first-year scholars received a commemorative cap on signing day ?? pic.twitter.com/OEXyucxMXl
— The LFC Academy (@LFCAcademyX) July 8, 2026
Abe, Zak Coxon, Joseph Dixon, Shadrach Ekiugbo, Erik Farkas, Japhecht Izekor Garan, Isaiah Garin, Max Hawkins, James Hilditch, Charlie Huth, Daniel Majekodunmi and Charlie Phillips were the recipients.
The caps are deep red with gold trims and resemble the caps awarded to England senior internationals.
Academy director Alex Inglethorpe explained to Liverpoolfc.com: “We came up with the idea of wanting the boys to have something that was not only meaningful but something that they could look back on in years to come and make them smile.
“It’s individualised with the player’s name and the class of this year, obviously [the] class of ’26. They’re beautiful.
“I was never fortunate enough to get an international cap myself, so it’s the closest I’ve ever come to holding one! But when you do, you can understand exactly how significant they are.”
KIRKBY, ENGLAND - Saturday, September 13, 2025: Liverpool's Under-21's manager Robert Page (L), Academy Director Alex Inglethorpe (C) and Jay Spearing during the U18 Premier League match between Liverpool FC Under-18's and Newcastle United FC Under-18's at the Liverpool Academy. Newcastle won 4-3. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
As mentioned above, the day was made more special by Dalglish handing over the commemorative caps at Anfield.
“Arguably, no one is better to pass on those caps than Sir Kenny Dalglish,” added Inglethorpe.
“Because not only is he someone who’s present at the training ground and present in the first team, but he’s also someone that’s forever shown a huge interest in the Academy.
“He represents all that’s good at the club.”
Josh Abe signs scholarship – will be on US tour
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Saturday, February 7, 2026: Liverpool's Joshua Abe during the U18 Premier League match between Liverpool FC Under-18's and Everton FC Under-18's, the Mini-Mini Merseyside Derby, at Finch Farm. Everton won 2-1. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
The majority of those who signed scholarships will be involved in Simon Wiles’ under-18s team in some capacity this season, while some will step up even further.
Abe, for example, will head to the US with the senior squad on the Reds’ pre-season tour. He turns 16 years old on July 17.
The talented winger was the subject of interest from Man City, Chelsea and Man United, but he has elected to stay on Merseyside despite reportedly being offered a pre-contract agreement elsewhere worth £50,000 per week.
Instead, he is set to sign a three-year deal at Liverpool once he turns 17 years old.