Virgil van Dijk late Rio Ngumoha demand said everything about fearless Liverpool talent
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Liverpool Echo IconSportFootballRio NgumohaOn-the-whistle analysis from Paul Gorst as Liverpool book their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup with a 3-1 win over Wolves at MolineuxShortly before his near 70-minute cameo came to an end here at Molineux, Rio Ngumoha, as he prepared to take possession for the umpteenth time of the night, was given a direct instruction from Virgil van Dijk.The 17-year-old, who was a constant thorn in the side of Wolves' back line all night - and Jackson Tchatchoua in particular - was implored by his captain to "run him" as he once more gathered the ball at his feet.It spoke to the growing confidence from within the team itself around Ngumoha's capabilities - and it was easy to see why after the England Under-19 international was finally let off the leash to help seal a 3-1 win and progress to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.This was the sort of performance that vindicated those who have been advocating for Ngumoha to feature more prominently in recent weeks. All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook pageAnd on just his fourth start of the campaign, he showed exactly what he is all about with a display that oozed class.Ngumoha was sharp from minute one, taking the breathe away at times with his ingenuity, his skill and the sort of fearless approach that you only possess, perhaps, when you are a relatively untried teenager with little to lose and an unshakable belief in your own ability.Arne Slot will have to continue with the strategy that seeks to avoid burnout and ease burden and responsibility on Ngumoha, but there is no denying he is precocious talent who is now worthy of further inclusion.One now almost trademark dribble saw him produce a step-over inside the area before working goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
The Wolves shot-stopper was also called into action in the second half from the Liverpool winger continued to torment the hosts.At a time when Cody Gakpo is failing to reproduce what he delivered last season for the Reds, his teenage understudy showed here why there is such a buzz around him at Anfield.In many ways, it was an easy decision for Slot to give the youngster this start in the FA Cup. However, he has a much different proposition to reflect on now as Liverpool prepare to travel to Galatasaray, renowned as one of the most hostile places for visiting teams in world football.It would represent a brave call from the head coach but if Slot is suitably emboldened to give Ngumoha the nod at Rams Park on Tuesday night, the boy has the opportunity to become a man.Paul GorstPaul Gorst is the Liverpool ECHO's Liverpool FC correspondent and brings readers the inside track on all matters Anfield day in, day out.
He brings you all the latest Liverpool news first each day, plus exclusive interviews and insightful, independent analysis. A journalist with over a decade's worth of experience, he has worked at the ECHO since 2016.Choose Liverpool Echo as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Liverpool FCWolverhampton Wanderers FCFA CupRio Ngumoha