He was the next best thing. Ben Woodburn became Liverpool’s youngest ever scorer when he netted against Leeds United in November 2016, aged just 17 years an 45 days old. The Welsh wizard failed to kick on from that goal. Reds fans were hoping he’d be making Kylian Mbappe sized strides toward the first team, flying through the ranks. However, he faded away into the reserves for further development.
Since his record breaking goal, Ben Woodburn has been out on loan to Sheffield United in 2018 and now finds himself at Oxford United for the season. His spell at the Blades was hugely disappointing. The Welshman struggled for game time and suffered an ankle injury in December, eventually being recalled from his loan early by Liverpool. He made only 7 league appearances for the then Championship side.
Finally, it appears as if Ben Woodburn is finding his feet. He is enjoying a consistent run of games in the Oxford United side. His most recent games have been a joy to behold. The versatile winger has assisted in each of his last two appearances for the U’s, helping them to a 3-0 victory over Gillingham at the weekend, hot on the heels of an emphatic 6-0 away win at Lincoln City.
These are very encouraging signs for all involved. The Reds academy clearly rate Woodburn highly given how soon he was thrust into the first team. Liverpool fans had their heart set on the youngster becoming the player he promised to be with his goal against Leeds United. Let’s just hope he can maintain his form and development and hopefully stake a claim for a place in the Liverpool side in the near future.
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