Liverpool’s Brazilian youngster Allan Rodrigues de Souza has been described as having “huge, unbelievable potential” by Simo Valakari, the manager of SJK Seinajoki.
Allan signed for the Reds in the summer but was promptly loaned out to Finnish side SJK, who he helped win the league by putting in three man-of-the-match performances in just eight appearances. He scored two goals and created five more from his midfield role.
Speaking to Melissa Reddy of Goal.com, Valakari spoke very highly of Allan.
He has huge, unbelievable potential. He has big technical ability, a wonderful left foot and the football intelligence to use it. Allan is small, but very strong – he uses his body well and positions himself cleverly. He can pick any pass in a game, and understands space very well.
Liverpool have had many talented young players in the past, and for each one who makes it into the first-team, there are dozens who fail to make the grade.
Sometimes the difference between becoming a first-team player and not quite being up to standard can be mental strength and toughness, something Valakari, who knows the Premier League well after a spell at Derby County as a player, says Allan has in abundance.
As a coach, you come across great talent all the time. But the thing you look for, the characteristics that make you very happy, is a great attitude and a strong mind. If a player hasskill and this, then it is perfect. He came to a totally new environment and with his passion and drive, fitted in so easy. The fact a player with a language barrier can understand exactly how things should be done in training and matches means he is very, very good. He immediately improved the team and helped us win the championship. He has all the qualities to succeed at the top level.
Time will tell if the Brazilian can force his way into Jurgen Klopp’s thoughts, but his successful loan spell was a good start to a hopefully glittering career.
Find out more about Allan with our fact file.
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