Teenager scored one and helped fashion another and Robertson says it’s a sign of his development
Andy Robertson has praised teenage teammate Rio Ngumoha after the 17-year-old scored in Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League win over Fulham, admitting he had urged the youngster to pass moments before the goal.
Ngumoha, making only his second league start, opened the scoring in the 36th minute at Anfield with a sublime solo effort. The winger cut inside and curled a finish into the far corner, sparking a victory that ended Liverpool’s recent poor run of form.
Robertson revealed after the match that he had been calling for the ball on the overlap but admitted the teenager made the right decision.
“He’s unbelievable,” Robertson said. “It just shows you sometimes don’t listen to the experienced players. I was screaming at him to say that I’m coming on the overlap.
“Then he just goes and cuts inside. It’s a great finish, great performance by him. He just keeps learning and listening, he’s such a good kid. Him and Trey [Nyoni] are a pleasure to work with and they listen to all the lads.
“You can just see them improving all the time. He’s got a big future ahead of him, but here and now is pretty good as well.”
The match also carried personal significance for Robertson, playing his first game after confirming he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season after nine years at the club. The vice-captain and one of the last players left from the Jurgen Klopp era said he is focused on appreciating his remaining time at Anfield.
“I knew my song would get sung a couple of times,” said Robertson. “This club means everything to me. It’s a fact. I’ve been here nine years. I was a boy at one time. Now I’ve become a man here.
“This club’s made me into who I am now – I owe them a lot. I’m just going to try and enjoy and embrace every minute I’m at this football club. When I get a start I just try and enjoy it.”
