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Former Watford striker Troy Deeney has revealed how Graeme Souness had serious doubts about Ryan Gravenberch following his move to Liverpool in 2023.
The midfielder has been in superb form for the Reds over the past year or so, having been named the Premier League’s young player of the season for his role in the 2024/25 title win, in which he firmly established himself at the base of Arne Slot’s midfield.
And not only has he carried that form into the new campaign, but he has also added goals and assists to his game, having scored twice - including his brilliant strike against Everton on Saturday - and recorded two assists in his five appearances in the league and Europe.
His most recent performance in the Merseyside derby earned him a spot in BBC Sport’s team of the week, which is selected by Deeney, with the 37-year-old lifting the lid on a conversation he had with Souness about Gravenberch early on in his Liverpool career.
The Dutchman had a mixed first season at Anfield under Jurgen Klopp following his move from Bayern Munich in 2023, leaving some people to question whether he would be able to earn a regular spot in the Reds’ side - questions that he has since answered unequivocally.
“He scored against Everton, Liverpool won and they are five from five. He could be the best holding midfielder in the league right now,” Deeney said.
“I remember speaking to Graeme Souness about 18 months ago and he wasn't sure because nobody normally leaves Bayern Munich if they're that good.
"Well he'd better be thankful they let Gravenberch go because he is that good for Liverpool.”
Hugo Ekitike also earned a spot in Deeney’s team of the week after adding his fourth goal for Liverpool at the weekend, having arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt during the summer.
Despite his superb record so far, many fans and pundits still expect the French international to be second-choice to Alexander Isak once the former Newcastle star reaches full fitness - although Deeney has been impressed by Ekitike so far.
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“He's the only striker I know who has been brought in for a massive amount of money and people think will be sitting on the bench,” Deeney commented.
“But he goes from strength to strength, week to week. There is a lot of talk about Alexander Isak and that's normal because he's unbelievable - but this guy just seems to get the job done time and time again.
“Every time you see him play it feels like he should score. He carries the line well. He's a different option for Liverpool. He's been brilliant. Five straight wins for Liverpool and he's been at the heart of it all.”
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