It’s Not Nyoni: Liverpool’s “Unplayable” Teen Could be an Even Bigger Talent Than Doak
Arne Slot’s tactical acumen is proving to be highly effective in the Premier League. Liverpool’s outstanding start to the 2024/25 season is a testament to this.
Slot is known for his charisma and personable nature, but there’s also a sharpness to his approach that sets him apart. This was evident when he made the decision to substitute Jarell Quansah at halftime during the opening match against Ipswich Town.
The move was harsh and direct but ultimately changed the game in Liverpool’s favour, setting the tone for their impressive run of winning nine out of ten matches so far this season.
Although Slot’s tactics suggest a willingness to make changes, he has actually been quite consistent with his starting lineup. Despite only a few modifications to his team, Liverpool’s success continues, underlining his strategic prowess.
The youth talent pool at Liverpool is vast, whether at Kirkby or gaining experience elsewhere. Among the standout talents are Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha, a promising summer signing. However, they are not alone, as players like Ben Doak, who went out on loan in August, have also made a significant impact.
Ben Doak Performance This Season
Doak had the potential to contribute significantly to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool last season but was hindered by injuries after a promising start. He began in three of the club’s Europa League group stage matches before his season was disrupted.
For the 2024/25 season, it was decided that a loan move would benefit his development, leading him to join Middlesbrough in the Championship. Since then, he has started in the past three games, scoring in a 2-0 win over Stoke City.
Though that goal has been a highlight, Doak’s overall performance metrics have been even more impressive. According to Sofascore, the 18-year-old has averaged two key passes and 1.2 dribbles per game, making him a consistent threat for his team on the wing.
He has since been recalled to the Scotland national team, where he delivered a standout performance against Croatia. Former Scotland defender Willie Miller praised his fearless and combative approach, noting that Doak’s ball-carrying ability made him a bright spot on an otherwise lackluster night.
Doak is undoubtedly a talent with a bright future. However, Liverpool may have an even bigger and more thrilling prospect within their ranks.
Liverpool Biggest Academic Talent
It’s not Nyoni, who possesses plenty of quality but still has much to prove. Rather, it is Jayden Danns who has already demonstrated his goalscoring ability at the highest level.
Sometimes, it’s evident early on. Danns’ two goals against Southampton last season were a clear statement about his knack for scoring, a sharp weapon he wields with precision in the final third. His ability to breach even the toughest defenses will only improve as he continues to develop in the coming years.
Despite being just 18, Danns made a significant impact last season. He played a crucial role in Liverpool’s FA Cup fifth-round victory over Southampton, stepping up in less than 30 minutes of action to help the injury-hit team advance.
Just days earlier, Danns made his Premier League debut against Luton Town. Although he played for only a few minutes, his positive influence was undeniable, holding up play and contributing to Harvey Elliott’s late goal, which secured a 4-1 win for Liverpool at Anfield.
| Jayden Danns: Career Stats | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Level | Apps | Goals | Assists |
| Liverpool U18 | 33 | 24 | 4 |
| Liverpool U21 | 8 | 3 | 2 |
| Liverpool | 5 | 2 | 0 |
| Liverpool UEFA U19 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Stats Source: Transfermarkt | |||
Danns has showcased remarkable form in the U18 Premier League for the Reds, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in just seven matches. Impressively, he found the back of the net in every one of those games.
While the transition from youth football to the senior stage can often be challenging, Danns’ smooth adaptation suggests he could play a key role in the Premier League, possibly for Liverpool.
Youth scout Antonio Mango has praised Danns, calling him “unplayable” after one of those matches—a 4-0 victory over Newcastle United at the youth level.
Although Danns has been sidelined with an injury during the opening months of the current season, it’s likely that coach Slot is aware of his potential and may look to integrate him into the squad as the season progresses.
It would be wise to do so, as Danns has demonstrated remarkable composure and precision in high-pressure situations, especially when it comes to shooting opportunities. His ability to stay calm and place his shots effectively is impressive for a player of his age and experience level.
Danns appears to be a genuine talent, with a goal-scoring instinct that could help him evolve into an elite striker. His prolific abilities may make him one of Liverpool’s brightest prospects for the future.
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