Rio Ngumoha’s England debut showcased hidden skill which Andoni Iraola can use as a secret weapon

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Rio Ngumoha’s England debut offered another exciting reminder of why Liverpool believe they have one of the best young attackers in the country.The 17-year-old came on at half-time against New Zealand, earned man of the match recognition and once again showed that his progression is not slowing down. He has already caught the eye under Arne Slot, but what he showed on his international debut should be particularly interesting for Andoni Iraola.Ngumoha is usually thought of as a left-sided winger, but his England display showed a two-wing versatility that could become a serious weapon for Liverpool next season.

Liverpool are currently short of wide options, and the teenager is beginning to show he can cover both flanks rather than being locked into one role.Antoine Semenyo became such a threat under Iraola at Bournemouth because he could move across the front line, attack defenders from different angles and still carry a goal threat.Ngumoha is not the same profile. He has shown under Slot and now for England that he can be a modern two-sided wide threat, not just a touchline winger on one side.

Jude Bellingham told Ngumoha he has a ‘really bright future’ at Liverpool after handing him his first England cap, while the English press reaction reflected just how lively he looked on debut.Bayern Munich interest in Ngumoha has also emerged in recent days, but Liverpool’s stance appears firm. With senior players away at the World Cup, Ngumoha is one of the Liverpool players Iraola can properly work with early, and his England debut has just given the new manager something very interesting to think about.Join Our NewsletterReceive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox