Rio Ngumoha has called Liverpool the “biggest club in the world,” following his superb performance in the 2-0 win over Fulham.
The 17-year-old became the Reds’ youngest-ever league goalscorer at Anfield on Saturday, producing a player of the match display.
Ngumoha opened the scoring brilliantly, jinking his way past defenders and curling home, and he was a lively presence all evening.
Speaking on Sky Sports after an excellent performance, Ngumoha made a comment that will be music to the ears of every Liverpool fan.
“Liverpool, for me, is the biggest club in the world,” Ngumoha said.
“To start so young and the manager having belief in me and all the players, it’s great.
“So, I’ve got to keep working hard and keep pushing on and just go again.”
Rio Ngumoha wants a Ballon d’Or
Ngumoha is clearly a hugely ambitious young footballer, outlining what he wants to achieve in another Sky Sports interview before the Fulham match.
“I’m so confident in myself – hopefully, a Ballon d’Or,” he said.
“And also many club trophies with Liverpool – many Prems (Premier Leagues), Champions Leagues, obviously everyone wants to win that.
“But just to be regarded as one of the best players to ever play football.”
Have Liverpool unearthed their next true great?
Predicting the career trajectory of any young footballer is hard, with injuries always a potential factor, for example.
But if Ngumoha matches the hype surrounding him, and reaches the ceiling he clearly believes he has, Liverpool will have a special player in their ranks.
The early signs are so encouraging, with the winger performing with such fearlessness, but also delivering end product rather than just quick feet.
Liverpool must handle Ngumoha with care, though, using the likes of Robbie Fowler and Michael Owen as past cautionary tales.
Both had arguably peaked by their early 20s due to being overplayed, and the Reds must ensure their new teenage prodigy’s minutes are managed more effectively.
On current form, it is hard to leave Ngumoha out, and he will be pushing for a start at home to Paris Saint-Germain in a huge game on Tuesday.
He’ll believe he can single-handedly send Liverpool into the Champions League semi-finals!