Rio Ngumoha has been one of Liverpool’s brightest sparks this pre-season, and fans are already drawing comparisons to Mohamed Salah — not for playing style, but for the sense that Chelsea may have let another future star slip through their hands.

The 17-year-old forward stole the spotlight once again as Liverpool’s second-string side cruised to a 4-1 victory over Athletic Club in their first of two friendlies at Anfield.

His fearless dribbling and flair were on full display once again, earning him a standing ovation as he was subbed off midway through the second half.

Rio Ngumoha has Liverpool fans convinced Chelsea have “done another Salah”	Liverpool player ratings, winners and losers vs Athletic Club as Rio Ngumoha and 2 more excellent	Rio Ngumoha has clear Liverpool message as second ace sends Arne Slot reminder - 4 talking points

“He is such an excellent prospect,” said former Liverpool defender Gary Gillespie on LFC TV.

“The difficulty is managing expectations but it’s hard to put a lid on it.”

Also Read: Liverpool interested in completing ‘highly unlikely’ transfer by signing Premier League star

Ngumoha is not a product of Liverpool’s academy.

With Luis Diaz sold, Diogo Jota tragically lost in a car crash, and Darwin Nunez attracting interest from Saudi Arabia, a door may be opening for Ngumoha in the first team.

“I’m not trying to rush because I’m still only young,” Ngumoha said last week.

“But at the same time, I just want to show the manager what I can do and not get too complacent.

I just want to do bigger and better things for me and the club.”

The signs are clear: if he keeps this up, Liverpool might just have their next Anfield gem—and Chelsea may live to regret it.

Also Read: Why Alexander Isak visits Newcastle training ground amid Liverpool transfer talks


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