Slot could save Liverpool millions with 'top player' who left Terry distraught

Liverpool fans will be excited by the potential of young forward Rio Ngumoha after he impressed during their 3-1 friendly win over Preston on Sunday, with the player leaving Chelsea for Anfield last year

Liverpool boss Arne Slot could opt to save millions on a new forward after the impressive display of youngster Rio Ngumoha in their 3-1 win over Preston, just months after the youngster left John Terry distraught by quitting Chelsea for Anfield.

Ngumoha caught the eye for the Reds on Sunday as he started the game on the left flank and was involved in a number of attacks in the first half.

He was heavily involved in Conor Bradley's opening goal as he drive forwards at goal from the wing, cleverly dancing in and out of defenders before supplying the ball to Federico Chiesa - who crossed for Dominik Szoboszlai to provide Bradley a tap-in.

Ngumoha only played the first 45 minutes of the game, but it was enough to leave a lasting impression and give Liverpool fans hope they might have a gem on their hands, having seen him his senior debut in the 4-0 win over Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup in January.

The 16-year-old arrived from Chelsea in September last year, a move that left youth coach and club legend Terry gutted after losing one of their top talents.

When Ngumoha's move was confirmed, the player posted a picture of him holding a Liverpool shirt on Instagram as he wrote: "Delighted to sign for @liverpoolfc YNWA."

In response, Terry - who was Ngumoha's academy coach at Stamford Bridge - said: "Good luck mate. This boy is and will be a top, top player."

It's understood Ngumoha left Chelsea for Liverpool because he felt there was a clearer pathway to the first team than in west London - and he could get a chance under Slot despite the club in the market for a new forward. They have been linked with Newcastle's Alexander Isak, but he carries a huge price tag of around £150m.

Ngumoha has witnessed how Bradley, Jarrell Quansah and Trey Nyoni have all received opportunities in the first team in recent years, while Chelsea tend to favour high profile signings in their line-ups.

Slot has made it clear during his career that he is happy to promote youngsters if they are good enough after starting his coaching career with the PEC Zwolle academy.

“I like to see good players and if they are old or young, that doesn’t matter that much,” Slot said in his first Liverpool press conference.

“It’s always nice for a club and team that young players come through the ranks. That always gives energy to a club. In the end, it’s all about the quality. If they continue doing well, there will be a fair chance that they will play.”