Liverpool will continue their FA Cup journey this Sunday as they take on Championship side Plymouth Argyle in the fourth round. With the Reds competing on multiple fronts this season, manager Arne Slot is expected to make significant changes to his starting lineup, providing a golden opportunity for some of the club’s most promising academy stars to showcase their talent.
The club has a rich history of nurturing young players, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, and Conor Bradley serving as prime examples of Liverpool’s youth development success. This season, another exciting batch of youngsters is pushing for first-team involvement, and Sunday’s FA Cup clash could offer them the perfect stage to shine.
Here, we take a closer look at three Liverpool youngsters who could make a lasting impression on Arne Slot during the FA Cup clash with Plymouth Argyle.
James McConnell: A Midfield General in the Making
One of the most promising academy players in Liverpool’s ranks, James McConnell has already shown his potential on the big stage. The 20-year-old midfielder was handed a start in Liverpool’s final Champions League group stage fixture against PSV Eindhoven, a match that ultimately meant little in terms of qualification but served as a crucial learning experience for McConnell.
Displaying remarkable composure in possession, McConnell managed to shine despite the chaotic nature of the game, earning praise from Arne Slot post-match. His performance was so convincing that Liverpool swiftly ruled out a potential winter loan move, highlighting his growing importance to the squad.
With fellow academy graduate Tyler Morton sidelined due to a shoulder injury, McConnell’s presence in the midfield has become even more vital. His ability to retain the ball under pressure, dictate the tempo of the game, and make intelligent passing choices makes him a valuable asset. Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Plymouth presents another chance for him to build on his previous displays and solidify his place in Liverpool’s first-team setup.
Having already made 13 appearances for the Reds, McConnell will be keen to leave a lasting impression against Plymouth. If he continues to perform at this level, he could soon become a regular fixture in Liverpool’s midfield rotation.
Rio Ngumoha: A Teenage Sensation with Raw Talent
At just 16 years old, Rio Ngumoha made headlines when he started for Liverpool in their FA Cup third-round victory over Accrington Stanley. In doing so, he became the club’s youngest-ever starter in the competition, a record that speaks volumes about his potential and the trust the coaching staff has in him.
Ngumoha, who made a high-profile switch from Chelsea to Liverpool’s academy last summer, has already been included in Liverpool’s Champions League squad for the knockout phase. This decision further underlines the club’s belief in his abilities, and while he may not start against Plymouth, there’s a strong chance he will feature at some stage.
His FA Cup debut was nothing short of impressive. Ngumoha’s direct running and electric pace quickly caught the attention of Liverpool fans. During his 72 minutes on the pitch, he completed more successful dribbles than any other player, registered two shots on target, and constantly looked to drive forward with the ball at his feet.
Interestingly, Ngumoha was omitted from both Liverpool’s U18 and U21 squads this weekend, a clear indication that he is in Slot’s plans for the FA Cup tie. If given another chance to impress, he will be looking to build on his already eye-catching debut performance.
Trey Nyoni: The Elegant Midfield Playmaker
Liverpool fans have been excited about Trey Nyoni ever since he joined the club from Leicester City’s academy in 2023. The 17-year-old midfielder has gradually made his mark in the youth ranks, and his impressive performances in pre-season under Slot further fueled the excitement surrounding his potential.
Nyoni’s playing style sets him apart from many young midfielders. Despite his slender frame, he possesses exceptional composure on the ball, a keen eye for a pass, and the ability to dictate play from deep midfield areas. His technical ability and vision allow him to slide quick, incisive passes into the final third, making him a creative force in Liverpool’s engine room.
Much like Ngumoha, Nyoni was also left out of Liverpool’s youth squads this weekend, suggesting that he is part of the traveling squad for the FA Cup clash with Plymouth. While he may not start, Morton’s injury situation could see Nyoni given an opportunity to feature in some capacity.
With five first-team appearances already under his belt, Nyoni will be eager to make his sixth a memorable one. If he can impress in the limited minutes he might receive, he could push for further involvement in domestic cup competitions and perhaps even Premier League matchday squads.
Liverpool’s Young Stars Set to Shine
Liverpool’s ability to develop and integrate young talent into the first team has been a key factor in their success over the years. The FA Cup clash against Plymouth offers another opportunity for emerging stars to stake their claim for more regular involvement.
- James McConnell is expected to start and control the midfield, looking to build on his promising Champions League performance.
- Rio Ngumoha could feature again, using his pace and direct dribbling to trouble the Plymouth defense.
- Trey Nyoni might not start but could come on as an impact substitute, looking to showcase his composure and passing range.
With Liverpool’s relentless fixture schedule, the importance of squad depth and youth involvement cannot be overstated. These young talents have a golden opportunity to impress Arne Slot and prove that they belong at the highest level.
If they can deliver strong performances against Plymouth, it won’t be long before they are knocking on the door for more Premier League and European appearances. The future is bright for Liverpool’s next generation.
