Lewis Steele: Exciting Liverpool star ‘deserves far more minutes’ from Arne Slot | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Next Step Hinges on Rio Ngumoha Under Arne Slot

In a detailed discussion on the Anfield Index podcast, Dave Davis hosted Lewis Steele to unpack Liverpool’s summer priorities, with a sharp focus on youth progression and attacking evolution. While much of the conversation centred on replacing Mohamed Salah and squad restructuring, one theme stood out clearly, the need for Rio Ngumoha to take on a bigger role at Liverpool under Arne Slot.

Rio Ngumoha’s Rising Influence

Steele was unequivocal about Ngumoha’s impact, highlighting both his presence and the reaction he provokes. He noted, “every single time he plays, he gets people in the stadium excited and he gets the opposition players and fans scared.” That sentiment was reinforced with a vivid anecdote, “I was sat next to an Evertonian in the press box on Sunday and when Rio came on, he went, ‘Oh god, I don’t want him running up against O’Brien…’”.

This is not empty hype. Steele pointed to tangible qualities in Ngumoha’s game, saying, “he looks like he knows where the goal is as well. He’s only scored twice, but they’re both really well taken finishes.” For a young player still developing physically and tactically, that composure in key moments is significant.

Trust Growing Under Arne Slot

A key shift discussed in the podcast is Slot’s increasing trust in Ngumoha. Steele observed, “there’s been a noticeable shift in how much Slot trusts him,” referencing more meaningful appearances, including starts and earlier substitutions when Liverpool needed a goal.

Previously limited to short cameos or cup matches, Ngumoha is now entering games with purpose. Steele explained, “bringing him on after 60 minutes when they need a goal, whereas previously he was only chucking him on for 10 minutes at the end of games.” This evolution suggests that Slot is beginning to see Ngumoha as more than a prospect.

Still, Steele urged balance, adding, “I’m not saying he should be starting every single week but there’s nothing to say he can’t be having 60 minutes.” That middle ground is crucial as Liverpool look to integrate youth without overexposing it.

Photo: IMAGO

Attacking Rebuild Must Include Ngumoha

Liverpool’s attacking situation is in flux, with Steele stressing that “two attackers have got to come in to replace Mo Salah.” Yet importantly, he does not see new signings as a barrier to Ngumoha’s progress. “I don’t think two forwards block Rio,” he said, reinforcing the idea that talent should earn minutes regardless of recruitment.

Instead, Ngumoha’s development should be part of the solution. Steele made it clear that the current attack lacks spark, noting, “there’s not been a lot of excitement in this playing style even when Liverpool have been winning games this season. But when Rio comes on Anfield’s singing, chanting his name.”

That connection with supporters is not trivial. It reflects a player who changes momentum, something Liverpool have lacked at times.

Bigger Role Required Next Season

Looking ahead, Steele’s conclusion was simple and direct, “I think he deserves a lot more minutes.” With Liverpool entering a new phase under Arne Slot, that statement carries weight.

Ngumoha represents both immediacy and potential. Steele captured it best when he described him as “a sort of player that gets bums off seats, gets people excited.” For a team reshaping its identity, that quality is invaluable.

If Liverpool are to evolve successfully under Slot, integrating Ngumoha is not optional, it is essential. The pathway is there, the trust is growing, and the evidence is mounting. Now it becomes a matter of execution.