Meet Liverpool's rising star who can only play friendlies
The emergence of teenage defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe has been one of the main storylines of Liverpool's pre-season - but why can the 18-year-old only play friendly matches?
Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola's first pre-season season has had its fair share of difficulties, but there is a glimmer of hope in the form of 18-year-old defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe. The Reds have managed to win two and lose two friendlies so far, with scores including a victory over Sunderland and a defeat to Leeds. Iraola's team is struggling with a shortage of central defenders, and Ndukwe has been given more playing time than expected due to the injuries of Joe Gomez, Jeremy Jacquet, and Giovanni Leoni.
Despite being only 18, Ndukwe has already played 80 minutes and was given a start alongside captain Virgil van Dijk against Monaco. The young Austrian international has impressed with his neat backheel and defensive duels. Ndukwe's future remains unclear, as he is not eligible to play in competitive games due to Brexit rules, but he may be able to play in friendly matches.
His agent has stated that a loan club will be found to provide him with high-level playing experience, and several top international clubs have already shown interest. Ndukwe must earn 15 points while on loan to qualify for a work permit, which could lead to him appearing for Liverpool after the turn of the year.
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