Liverpool latest: Arne Slot praises 'beast' player as new signing trains with first team
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And it's a move that could prove crucial in cementing a top-five finish and securing a return to European football's premier competition.Slot has also heaped praise on one of Liverpool's most exciting young talents, crediting him with "becoming a beast" during a recent spell on the sidelines. January transfer training with Liverpool first teamREAD MORE: Alisson, Mamardashvili, Gomez - Liverpool injury news and return dates for Crystal PalaceSlot praises 'beast' Leoni's developmentGiovanni Leoni may not have been seen much around Anfield this season, but Slot has nonetheless praised the youngster for his recent developments.
Slot is fully aware of the physical specimen at his disposal after Leoni joined from Parma last summer amid significant fanfare.The Liverpool boss found himself thinking of Leoni while discussing Hugo Ekitike's recent season-ending injury. And supporters will no doubt be enthused by Slot's glowing assessment of the youngster's development.Speaking at a press conference ahead of this weekend's clash against Crystal Palace, Slot said: "He [Ekitike] will be back stronger, as well as the others who have been injured for such a long time."If you look at Giovanni Leoni, I don't know if you once in a while see some Instagram posts of the club, but this guy has become a beast!"Leoni is still working his way towards a comeback and is not expected to return to first-team action until the latter stages of 2026.
The teenage centre-back was ruled out after an injury was discovered during his Liverpool medical, but is now making encouraging progress on Merseyside.The youngster is edging closer to a first-team debut after joining Slot's squad for the first time this week. Nevertheless, supporters will hopefully soon witness Ndiaye in action as he settles into the squad, having earned his first outing for Liverpool's under-21s only last month.Buy Blood Red, our monthly Liverpool FC print publication for just £3.50 by clicking here