8 months ago
121 Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has spoken highly about Trey Nyoni’s “incredible” rise to prominence this season.
The Reds defender, speaking to BBC Sport, sought to provide advice to the 16-year-old and his fellow academy stars.
On Wednesday, Nyoni became the youngest Liverpool player to feature in the FA Cup when he came on against Southampton.
The midfielder replaced former record holder Harvey Elliott in the 78th minute of the match, with the Reds 2-0 up at that stage.
At 16 years, eight months and eight days old, Nyoni also became the third-youngest player ever to turn out for Liverpool.
Elliott had previously held the record after making an appearance in their 2020 FA Cup win over Everton aged 16 years, nine months and one day old.
“It was a big night for all of them and they should really take it in, enjoy it, see it as a start and really use it in every way,” said Van Dijk.
“They all have quality and all can play good football, but it is about showing your quality and it’s a start. For example, Trey at 16 years old, it is incredible.
“There will be so many ups and downs coming for him, but he has to take it in as players [are] maybe coming back in the next weeks and months and it could be difficult for him [to get in the squad].
“He has to keep pushing and the same for the rest of the young boys. That should be the mentality and I am sure they will do that.”
Trey Nyoni a rising star at Liverpool
It’s always great when an academy star makes it into the senior team, and Liverpool have had their fair share of youngsters make an impact for Klopp’s side.
The likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones have become established stars, and there have been plenty more that are having great careers after coming through the ranks at Anfield.
Nyoni is a top talent who has been impressing at youth level and a senior debut is just what he deserves for his efforts in the academy setup. He looks like he’ll go far.
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