Liverpool’s season thus far has been punctuated by unexpected success from their academy players.
Liverpool’s injury difficulties have forced a number of young players to step up. Aside from the big stars like Jarell Quansah and Conor Bradley, Jayden Danns, James McConnell, and Bobby Clark have all performed well.
Former Reds winger Steve McManaman, however, believes that if given the opportunity, a few of other players would do admirably. Unfortunately, they are now out on loan.
at an interview with The Mirror today, McManaman, who is said to have rising influence at the academy, mentioned Tyler Morton and Fabio Carvalho as two players who may have made a difference for Liverpool right now.
“But you also have to talk about the ones who are on loan, like Tyler Morton and Fabio Carvalho,” remarked the analyst, after lauding the more senior graduates.
“They’re on loan at the minute and doing really well but unfortunately for them, they’ve just missed out on this opportunity because if they were here they’d be playing.”
Liverpool duo missed out.
When planning a season, you must consider injuries. Liverpool has experienced their fair share of difficulties in recent seasons and should always be prepared for more.
In that regard, there will always be a few young players who are expected to stand up.
This season, it definitely fell mostly on Quansah and Bradley, as well as Ben Doak, who were expected to supplement the first team.
However, no one could have predicted that Liverpool would have to delve so deeply into the academy.
Of course, the fact that more and more young people are gaining opportunities is not a terrible thing. The Carabao Cup victory last month, in particular, will have given them all a huge boost going ahead. However, it is not optimal.
However, no matter how carefully you plan, you cannot keep every young player around just in case. Some are better serviced with loans.
Morton nearly stayed last summer. If Ryan Gravenberch hadn’t been brought in on deadline day, the 21-year-old would have played for Liverpool this season. Morton would have played a lot more than McConnell, Clark, and the other young midfielders because he was more experienced.
From there, he had the potential to progress and become a true first-team regular. He may still do it, but it feels like a squandered chance. He is doing well at Hull and hopes to earn his shot next season.
Carvalho, without a doubt, would have been helpful as well. He would have certainly played a significant number of games. However, with his future uncertain, he may be better served playing week after week, as he is with the Tigers.
