Van Dijk predicts bright Liverpool future for teenage winger Ngumoha

Virgil van Dijk says Rio Ngumoha has the qualities to become a Liverpool star after the 18-year-old helped inspire a remarkable 4-3 Champions League comeback against Villarreal at Anfield.

Liverpool recovered from falling two goals behind to beat the Spanish side on Tuesday, preserving their 100 per cent record in this season’s competition. Ngumoha created both of Alexis Mac Allister’s goals as the six-time European champions turned the match around.

Villarreal appeared to have taken control during the opening half-hour, exploiting weaknesses in Liverpool’s high-intensity approach to establish a 2-0 advantage. But Ngumoha’s pace, skill and willingness to attack gave Liverpool a constant outlet and caused Villarreal’s defence increasing problems.

The winger’s performance earned strong praise from Liverpool captain Van Dijk, who believes Ngumoha is still only starting to demonstrate what he can offer.

“He was a complete threat constantly and their defender had a tough time,” Van Dijk said.

Ngumoha also benefited last season from working alongside Mohamed Salah, before the Egypt forward left Anfield at the end of the campaign. Van Dijk believes that experience gave the teenager an important opportunity to learn from one of Liverpool’s leading attacking players.

Salah’s experience and quality offered Ngumoha regular insight into the demands of playing at the highest level, something the Liverpool captain feels the youngster has already begun to apply in matches.

“Everyone is chipping in but for him to work with Mo last year was obviously massive as Mo was one of the best wingers at the club and experienced everything, so why not soak in all the information and show it on the pitch and show your own qualities?” Van Dijk said.

The Dutch defender has been impressed by the way Ngumoha has turned that experience into effective performances this season. However, Van Dijk also believes the winger has considerable scope for further improvement.

“I think he has shown it this season but there is still much more to come,” Van Dijk added.

Ngumoha’s contribution was central to Liverpool’s response after Villarreal’s fast start, with his ability to threaten the visitors helping shift the momentum at Anfield. His two assists allowed Mac Allister to score twice as Liverpool completed the comeback.

Liverpool will now attempt to take that European momentum into the Premier League when they host Brighton at Anfield on Sunday.