Rio Ngumoha gave Liverpool supporters another glimpse of his enormous potential against Villarreal, but one decision from Andoni Iraola has left me wondering why the youngster was moved back to the left wing afterwards.
The teenager was outstanding on the right against the Spanish side. He caused problems, took defenders on, delivered dangerous balls into the box and provided two assists in Liverpool’s thrilling 4-3 Champions League comeback.
So why change something that was working so well?
Ngumoha showed he can be just as dangerous on the right
There was plenty to admire about Ngumoha’s performance against Villarreal.
His cross for Ronald Araújo’s equaliser was excellent, but his contribution to Alexis Mac Allister’s second goal was even better. His pace, close control and willingness to attack defenders made him a nightmare for Villarreal to contain.
What impressed me most was how comfortable he looked in a position that he has been learning to play.
Ngumoha has traditionally been a left winger, cutting inside and taking defenders on with his right foot. However, he is beginning to show that he can be equally effective on the opposite flank.
At just 18, having that versatility is a massive advantage.
What was Iraola thinking?
Iraola has previously made it clear that he wants his wide players to become comfortable operating on both sides.
Liverpool’s attacking options have also created something of a selection headache, with several players naturally preferring the left wing. Being able to switch flanks gives the manager more options when selecting his forward line.
There is also a tactical argument for using Ngumoha on the left. It is his natural position, where he can receive the ball, cut inside and attack the penalty area in the way that first made him such an exciting prospect.
Perhaps Iraola wanted to get other players involved on the right, or felt the next opponent presented a different tactical challenge.
We shouldn’t pretend to know his exact thinking, but moving Ngumoha back to the left doesn’t necessarily mean Iraola has changed his opinion of what he can offer on the right.
Liverpool need to make the most of this talent
My concern is that Liverpool have finally seen what Ngumoha can produce from the right, and I would like to see more of it.
He shouldn’t be restricted to one position simply because that is where he has played most of his football.
In fact, I think having the ability to switch wings during matches could make him even harder for defenders to deal with. Imagine opposition full-backs having to cope with him changing sides and attacking them from different angles.
There is also a bigger question about Liverpool’s attacking balance. Rather than always trying to fit players into their preferred positions, Iraola needs to find the combination that gives the team the greatest threat.
Ngumoha has earned the opportunity to be part of that solution.
Iraola must keep giving him opportunities
I am not suggesting that Ngumoha should automatically start every game or that he should be permanently stationed on the right.
He is still young, and there will be difficult afternoons along the way. Iraola is right to manage his development and encourage him to improve different aspects of his game.
But after watching him take Villarreal apart from the right wing, I would certainly like to see him given another opportunity there.
Liverpool have a special young talent on their hands. The challenge now is making sure his development continues while giving him enough opportunities to show what he can do.
My verdict: I wouldn’t move Ngumoha away from the right just because the left is his natural position. Villarreal showed that he can be devastating on either flank, and Liverpool should take full advantage of that.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
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