Michael Owen highlights “most frustrating thing in the world” for Liverpool player

The article reports on comments from former Liverpool striker Michael Owen, who believes one current Liverpool player is experiencing what he calls “the most frustrating thing in the world” for a footballer. Based on Owen’s remarks, the piece focuses on a talented attacker who is fit, eager and in form, yet finds himself repeatedly left out of the starting XI or substituted early despite doing little wrong individually.

Owen explains that for forwards in particular, rhythm, confidence and trust from the manager are crucial. He argues that constantly being rotated, pushed out of position or given only short cameos makes it almost impossible for a striker or wide forward to build momentum, even when the team is not scoring freely. According to him, the psychological impact of feeling powerless—training well all week but then watching from the bench—is what makes the situation so uniquely aggravating.

The article sets this in the context of Liverpool’s recent attacking struggles and tactical tweaks under the current manager. With several high‑profile options competing for places across the front line, Owen suggests that this particular player has become something of a victim of the system and the depth of the squad, rather than any clear drop in performance. He stresses that the player has shown quality when given chances, yet is still not being consistently trusted in his best role.

Ultimately, Owen’s view is that this limbo—too good to ignore, but never fully backed—is the worst place for any ambitious attacker. He implies that unless the situation changes with a run of starts in a settled position, both the player’s development and Liverpool’s attacking output could continue to suffer.