Liverpool have been handed an interesting option for January following Ifeanyi Ndukwe’s LaLiga debut for Levante.
The young defender made his first appearance for the Spanish side in Sunday’s 4-2 defeat to Barcelona, and according to the Liverpool Echo, that appearance means Ndukwe is now eligible for a UK work permit.
That could prove significant for Liverpool.
Ndukwe is currently gaining valuable first-team experience in Spain, but his new eligibility means Liverpool would be able to bring him back into the fold from January if Andoni Iraola decides that is the right move.
It is another reason why his development at Levante will be worth keeping a close eye on over the coming months.
Getting regular senior football in LaLiga is a completely different experience from playing youth football in England. Ndukwe will be tested physically, tactically and technically, and that experience could accelerate his development considerably.
For Liverpool, having the option to recall him in January could also be particularly useful if Iraola feels his defensive options need strengthening.
The Reds have made significant changes to the squad, and one of the biggest questions will be how the younger players develop behind the established first-team stars.
Ndukwe now has a huge opportunity to put himself firmly into Iraola’s thinking.
Nobody should expect Liverpool to automatically recall him just because he has become eligible for a work permit. The priority should be playing regularly and continuing his development at Levante.
But if he impresses in Spain over the next few months, Liverpool now have another option available to them.
And for a young player trying to break into the first team, that can only be a positive.
Ndukwe’s Liverpool story might not be on hold after all — January could potentially bring him back to Anfield.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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