Manager claims Liverpool have ‘England’s next number 9’ | OneFootball

Rob Page Predicts Bright Futures for Liverpool Starlets Danns and Rio Ngumoha

Liverpool’s academy has long been a source of elite-level footballers, but few coaches have spoken as confidently about the next generation as Rob Page. The former Wales manager, who took charge of Liverpool’s under-21s in June, has offered striking praise for two of the club’s brightest teenage prospects — Jayden Danns and Rio Ngumoha — describing one as a “special talent” and the other as a potential “future England number nine”.

Rob Page outlines Liverpool’s youth vision

Page, who guided Wales through two major tournaments earlier in his managerial career, has made a seamless transition into his new role at Kirkby. His emphasis on aligning the under-21s’ playing style with Arne Slot’s first-team approach is designed to make the step up more natural for emerging players.

Speaking recently, Page stressed how vital it is for young players to mirror the tactical and mental demands of Slot’s system. “The connection between the academy and first team has to be seamless,” he explained. “When these lads get their opportunity, they need to understand exactly what’s required of them. That’s how you produce consistent, ready-made professionals.”

It’s a clear indication that Page sees development not just as technical improvement but as preparation for the realities of Premier League football.

Rio Ngumoha earns glowing praise

At just 17 years old, Rio Ngumoha has already captured the imagination of Liverpool supporters. His dramatic winner away to Newcastle earlier this season announced his arrival on the biggest stage. Page, however, sees more than flair and composure in the teenager.

“He’s a special talent, I’m not going to lie,” Page said in an interview with talkSPORT. “In high-pressure situations, he manages to step it up. He’s calm, humble and has the right attitude. What impresses me most is his hunger to learn — he wants to improve every single day and never switches off.”

Ngumoha’s progress has been rapid. Since that match-winning moment at St James’ Park, he has featured in the Champions League and committed his future to the club by signing his first professional contract. His blend of technical excellence and maturity has positioned him among the most exciting young forwards in England.

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Danns tipped as future England striker

If Ngumoha represents promise fulfilled, Jayden Danns symbolises potential still being shaped. The 19-year-old striker burst onto the scene with two goals in the FA Cup against Southampton and played a part in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup triumph. Despite recent injury setbacks, Page’s confidence in the youngster remains unshaken.

“I’ve got Jayden Danns here as well, who’s probably going to be the next England number nine,” Page declared. It’s a bold statement, but one grounded in belief rather than hyperbole.

Danns’ combination of movement, finishing and physical presence makes him a natural focal point for any side. His temperament, like Ngumoha’s, also earns high marks. “Their attitude is exemplary,” Page said of his squad. “They’re a credit to their families — grounded, humble and driven.”

Liverpool’s academy continues to deliver

Liverpool’s academy has built a reputation for producing players capable of thriving in the high-intensity environment of Anfield. With Page now overseeing the final stage of youth development, the pipeline appears stronger than ever.

Both Ngumoha and Danns embody what Liverpool’s system aims to achieve — players who combine skill with character, and confidence with humility. While it’s still early days, Page’s enthusiasm is not misplaced. In these two young forwards, he sees not only the future of Liverpool, but potentially of English football.