Liverpool have some top talents on their hands and a very bright future.

The Reds are nearing the end of their pre-season and heading towards the new campaign, with Arne Slot getting a good look at both his new signings and young stars.

The latter in particular have shone during their tour of Asia, none more so than 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha, with the Englishman laying down a real statement of intent.

Raheem Sterling's London destinations ranked as West Ham, Fulham and Crystal Palace circle	Crystal Palace to 'push for Raheem Sterling deal' after Glasner exit threat	Andy Townsend says ‘explosive’ Liverpool player will be affected if Alexander Isak signs now

He certainly has not looked out of place in the first-team squad and he has impressed with his speed and dribbling ability, with the winger getting his first goal for the club in their latest friendly against Yokohama F.

Marinos.

He will be a player that has a bright future ahead and one person he may have to thank for this, whether Liverpool fans like it or not, is former Red Raheem Sterling after the advice he gave his former teammate.

Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images

Sterling will know exactly what Ngumoha is going through as he too had a similar start to his career, with the now-Chelsea man making his Reds debut aged 17.

It is fair to say he has gone on to have a very successful playing career, albeit it away from Anfield, but he knows exactly what it takes to cut it as a winger at the very top level.

And, while training together at Chelsea, Sterling gave Ngumoha some advice that he took with him, hence why he is now thriving when given the opportunity.

I remember one time, he pulled me to the side and told me ‘when you lose the ball, make sure you stay in the game,'” Ngumoha said on Inside the Academy back in October 2024.

READ MORE: Michael Owen reveals his stance on Alexander Isak forcing through Newcastle exit to join Liverpool

“This is because at the top level, everything happens so fast so you have to be on it to do your thing.

“It made me feel like I can do what he has done.

He is telling me that he can see what I am good at, from someone like Raheem, I was like ‘wow.'”

The fact Sterling could see his talent from so early on means it is no surprise to see why he is now so highly rated by the Liverpool hierarchy, and his performances over pre-season suggest he has a big future ahead.

Everyone needs to be careful not to overhype Ngumoha too much given his age, however everyone will say that it is very hard not to based on how impressive he has been.

Ngumoha may fancy his chances at some minutes next season now that Luis Diaz has gone, but the Reds need to ensure that they do not overuse him.

Cody Gakpo will be the first choice left winger, but that is not to say the Englishman cannot get some minutes here and there.

Cup competitions, especially in the early rounds, will also be a good chance for some game time, but as he is still learning and growing, fairly limited opportunities are the best way forward.


For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.