Liverpool’s approach in Paris fell flat, and if they are to beat the reigning European Champions, Paris Saint-Germain, they might need something different, in the form of teenager winger, Rio Ngumoha.
The Merseyside outfit took on Fulham over the weekend, where their starlet was named Man of the Match in the 2-0 victory.
In the Liverpool Echo latest column, former Reds forward John Aldridge believes that the 17-year-old could be a real issue for Luis Enrique’s side.
He said, “PSG won’t know how to play against Ngumoha because he is so different. He is young, he is fearless and won’t respect any reputations because he just wants to take his man on all the time.”
Aldridge calls for Ngumoha to start
Since his winning goal against Newcastle in August, his name has been on the lips of every fan in England, as he has showcased his calibre.
He hasn’t played too many Premier League games this season, but in recent league outings, he’s been a regular for Arne Slot, with appearances in the last six and starts against Spurs and Marco Silva’s team.
Aldo suggests that he has shown the quality needed to start, unlike one of his teammates.
“I can’t for the life of me understand why he has been wrapped in cotton wool so much by Arne Slot. If you are good enough, you are old enough, and you have to say he is bringing more to that position on the left flank presently than Cody Gakpo is.”
The Dutch winger has been heavily criticised this season by both pundits and fans for lacking real output, which has had a positive effect on the season.
The 67-year-old believes that if they are to overcome the mountain, which is PSG, Ngumoha has to start under the lights at Anfield.
“We’re going to need something unpredictable in the final third, and he is screaming out for a start because he can provide just that.”
Slot’s side lacked anything going forward, with just an xG of 0.17 in the first leg. If they are to strike fear into their opponent, perhaps Ngumoha’s attacking edge is the right call.
Making sure Anfield is special on a European night
Last season, Liverpool were beaten on penalties by their French opponents at Merseyside, but Slot’s troops demonstrated a solid performance and were unlucky not to advance on the night.
The flags will return to the Kop this evening to mark the Hillsborough anniversary, after their absence due to protests being held by the fans over increasing ticket prices.
Aldridge knows the fans will do their part, but it’s up to the players to make sure the job is done.
“Of course, they will turn up and play their part and give the Liverpool players something to use, but the squad must do the real work on the pitch. If the players don’t turn up, a great atmosphere won’t be much use.”
In the French capital, the Reds struggled to offer any offence, but they need to land the first blow this evening, according to Aldo.
“It’s all about the first goal. Getting that will turn the noise up to incredible levels, and going in at half time with a 1-0 lead could be massive for turning things around.”
He continued.
“If PSG score first, though, it will pretty much be curtains for a seventh European Cup.”
Slot will be hoping to reach his first Champions League semi-final and the club’s first since 2022.
