Alan Shearer singled out Liverpool star before second-half Wolves turnaround

• Liverpool FC News
• Features
• Rio Ngumoha

Rio Ngumoha was handed his fourth start of the season in Liverpool's FA Cup game against Wolves, and the teenager produced an encouraging performance

(Image: AFP or licensors)

Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha came in for praise from Alan Shearer during a bright showing from the youngster against Wolves on Friday night.

The 17-year-old was handed his fourth start of the season at Molineux, and produced an encouraging performance off the left flank.

The game came to life in the second half, with Andy Robertson, Mohamed Salah and Curtis Jones all scoring, but Ngumoha still managed to shine in a drab first half.

His quick feet drew praise from many observers, including Alan Shearer, who was on punditry duty for BBC Sport.

"Again, Liverpool in forward positions other than Rio Ngumoha have been poor," Shearer said. "They have got into decent positions, if it is not the final ball or their desire to get on to it, then it is other things. It has been rather disappointing from Liverpool.

"Right from the very first minute, the number of times they got the ball out to Rio Ngumoha. The bright things Liverpool have done have all come from Rio Ngumoha."

Ahead of the game, Arne Slot explained his decision to name Ngumoha among Liverpool's starters. "His playing time has increased a lot, so the next step is if you play five, 10, 15 and 30 minutes, then the next step is starting a game," the Dutchman said.