“While Salah and Gakpo Struggle, Ngumoha Waits”

When a young player publicly says he’s ready for more minutes, it usually raises eyebrows.

But when that player has already shown more energy and intent in limited appearances than established forwards have managed in full matches, it becomes harder to dismiss.

Ngumoha has made it clear:

“I feel like if you are not playing as much then you can stagnate, so I want to gain more minutes.”

That isn’t arrogance. It’s ambition.

And right now, Liverpool need ambition.

The Problem Slot Can’t Ignore

Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah have both struggled for consistency. The output hasn’t matched the expectation. The sharpness hasn’t been there. Too often the attack has looked predictable, safe, and easy to defend against.

Meanwhile, in short cameos, Ngumoha has looked direct, fearless and willing to take risks.

He runs at defenders.

He commits opponents.

He injects urgency.

That matters.

Age Is Not An Excuse

Managers often protect young players by pointing to their age. But football doesn’t wait.

Liverpool’s own history proves that.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was trusted young.

Michael Owen was trusted young.

Wayne Rooney exploded onto the scene as a teenager.

If you’re good enough, you’re old enough.

Slot’s Decision

Slot now faces a choice:

Continue backing senior players who are underperforming, hoping form returns.

Or reward hunger and momentum.

Ngumoha isn’t asking for a guaranteed starting spot. He’s asking for minutes. For opportunity. For trust.

And in a season where creativity and spark have been lacking at times, ignoring that plea could become harder and harder to justify.

Jamie (The Kopite View)