'Leave him alone' — Liverpool icon sends clear Rio Ngumoha message to England

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Liverpool.com or go back to LFC Live.

He was among several emerging talents summoned to Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad for the team's preparatory fixtures, expanding the 26-man selection.Ngumoha made his debut as a substitute in England's far from convincing victory over New Zealand at the weekend, earning the Player of the Match accolade. He's frequently displayed flashes of brilliance when afforded opportunities at the club level, and that pattern continued as he rose to the international occasion.However, Barnes maintains Ngumoha should be nowhere near the England setup, arguing instead that he must establish himself as a regular at Anfield before such discussions begin.He told talkSPORT: "Leave him alone and let him develop.

Theo Walcott went to the World Cup at 16, and if you want him to progress, you can't overemphasize his importance."He's not even playing for Liverpool. He's a sub for Liverpool, so until he gets into the team consistently and plays well, don't put the pressure on him.John Barnes has offered his opinion(Image: Getty Images)"That's why I'm glad he didn't play a lot last year in a Liverpool team that was struggling, because if they're not doing well and he suffers because of confidence, it could affect him."Let him develop slowly.

So the fact he's not in Liverpool's team, and I hope Arsenal do the same with Max Dowman, just leave them alone. He's had a really good season at Liverpool, and the manager gave him his debut, and he showed how good he is."