Liverpool U21s coach Barry Lewtas has heaped praised on 16-year-old academy star Trent Kone-Doherty.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Lewtas gave a glowing review of the ‘fearless’ Liverpool youngster, as well as fellow new signing Ben Doak.
“In Napoli [in the UEFA Youth League] I was really excited with the pair of them playing either side. Trent has played primarily with the U18s. He has done well,” said the coach. “Trent looks really dynamic, he can take players on, he combines well. He’s a wide attacking player who seems pretty fearless when he’s in one-v-one moments. He can change direction, he’s direct.
“It will have been a big step up for him in terms of the level of game since arriving, but he has seemed pretty fearless. Napoli made a change on his side early on in the first game and that was due to the success he was getting out wide.”
Doak gets his due
Lewtas also made sure to give a special mention to Doak, who has lit up the early stages of the academy season.
“Ben is with U18s and, as with Trent, they need to take credit for his progress. Ben seems to be settling well and has made an impact in games and scored some goals,” he said. “It’s nice in the Youth League that I get to see him and get to work with him and know him as well.”
With Liverpool set to take on Rangers in the Youth League later today, Lewtas acknowledged the significance for former Celtic man Doak.
“I’m sure he [Doak] will want to do well against Rangers, but it’s not Ben Doak v Rangers, it’s Liverpool v Rangers. If Ben starts, a good performance from him benefits the team,” said the coach. “But I don’t want to be adding any extra pressure on him, although I’m sure this is a game Ben has been looking at. The real challenge is how they continue to improve and develop, and I’m sure they will.”
Liverpool looking for three from three
In Doak and Kone-Doherty, Liverpool look to have secured two outstanding British talents.
Doak in particular looks to be making it his mission to fast-track his way to senior football. Having already played in an Old Firm game for Celtic, he’s been impressing well above his age group for Scotland U21s, too.
Tuesday gives both he and Kone-Doherty another chance to shine on the continental stage.
The Reds have so far won both of their games against Napoli and Ajax. Looking for three wins from three, they take on Rangers at 1pm today.
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