Young Reds edge out derby win in final PL2 game
The match was supposed to be a celebration for city rivals, Everton, as they played the final game in their title-winning season in front of their own fans. However, Liverpool U23s had different ideas as they ran out 2-1 winners at Goodison Park. Sheyi Ojo put the visitors ahead after just six minutes when he finished comfortably with a side-footed effort from close range. The score remained 1-0 up until the half-time break, but the Reds continued their fine form after the change of ends. Marko Grujic, who was excellent all game, beat his marker in midfield before running into the opposition’s half and unleashing an inch-perfect pass to Trent Alexander Arnold. The 18-year-old provided an excellent finish which saw the ball clip in off the upright. Everton did get one back 83 minutes through Calum Dyson, but it was too little too late. Liverpool finished the season in third position, behind Manchester City and Everton, who sit atop of the pile.
Representatives in the England squad
Sticking with a youth theme, Sheyi Ojo and Ovie Ejaria have both been selected for the England U20 squad, ahead of the U20 World Cup in South Korea this summer. The Reds are a part of a 21-man squad who kick off the tournament against Argentina on the 20th May.
Big developments in hunt for defenders
Just days after we reported that Virgil Van Dijk had apparently given a verbal agreement to join Liverpool, Southampton manager Claude Puel has said that his captain will remain at the club next season. Van Dijk has been out of action since January with ligament damage in his foot but that hasn’t stopped a host of clubs sniffing around and being prepared to pay £50million for him. Speaking after the 0-0 with Liverpool, Puel said, “He is our captain. He is important for us. He is a fantastic player. We will wait until the beginning of the season to see him again on the pitch. He has a long contract and I think the directors want to keep him”. If Liverpool were to sign the defender, it would no doubt shorten their odds for the title next season.
Elsewhere, The Mirror are reporting that Michel Keane has agreed personal terms with Liverpool ahead of a proposed £25million move to Anfield. The Englishman has been linked with the Reds several times over the last few months, as well as a number of other sides including his former team, Manchester United. We will have to wait and see just how true these reports are, considering the way the Van Dijk saga has been twisting and turning.
Liverpool one of Pickford’s many, many suitors
Liverpool are part of a six-strong list of teams that will be competing for Jordan Pickford’s signature this summer. Following their relegation, Sunderland are set to lose a number of key players and the young goalkeeper is expected to be one of them. Pickford has been outstanding for them this campaign with many believing that the Black Cats would’ve been relegated long ago if it hadn’t been for his heroics in goal. Arsenal, Everton, Manchester City, Manchester United and West Ham are the other teams interested in the 23-year-old who is valued at around £25million.