Liverpool starlets Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni have reflected on their pre-season breakthroughs and the mentality driving their impressive form after helping the Reds end their Far East tour on a high.
Ngumoha, who has Nigerian heritage, and Nyoni, of Zimbabwean descent, both found the net in Liverpool’s 3-1 comeback win over Yokohama Marinos, capping off a strong showing from the club’s emerging talent.
New signing Florian Wirtz also scored in the win, but the night belonged to the two teenagers who continue to catch the eye of manager Arne Slot.
Ngumoha, just 16 years old, has quickly become one of the club’s standout young prospects since arriving from Chelsea.
Speaking after scoring the third goal of the match, he praised the influence of senior teammate Andrew Robertson and stressed the importance of patience.
“Coming off the bench to make an impact was really good. It was obviously nice to get a goal today but that’s just the first of many,” he said.
“Robbo has really helped me a lot. He’s so experienced… I can’t really ask for anything more.”
Despite his rapid ascent, Ngumoha is determined to stay grounded. “I’m not trying to rush because I’m still only young. I just want to show the manager what I can do.”
Midfielder Trey Nyoni, who set up Ngumoha’s goal and scored earlier in the match, echoed similar sentiments about hard work and development.
“Everyone in the Academy has helped us develop and become better people as well,” he said. “Every time we train or play we give 100 per cent.”
On his goal, Nyoni said anticipation and chemistry played key roles. “As soon as I saw Jeremie, I just made sure I was inside the box and I just finished.”
