Ryan Gravenberch took his chance to break into the Liverpool midfield this evening.
Gravenberch was handed his third start for the Reds against Union Saint-Gilloise tonight, and provided his third goal contribution – prodding home to put Liverpool a goal to the good.
And after watching the 21-year-old give a smiley post-match interview to TNT Sports, former Reds striker Michael Owen said Gravenberch had ‘grabbed his opportunity.’
“I thought he was very good tonight,” said the 42-year-old. “It’s great when you see that reaction. Most people feel it inside but can hold their emotions, but why not let it out and what a night for him, first goal at Anfield.
“I think he could be a good player for Liverpool in the future, that midfield has been completely ripped up this summer. There’s an opportunity for whoever wants to grab it and he certainly grabbed his opportunity tonight. Very good.”
Gravenberch makes an impression
With all now said and done, this feels like something of a breakout game for Gravenberch at Liverpool.
Up until now the Dutchman has been somewhat on the periphery for the Reds. But having now properly found his feet, he’ll be knocking at the door for a first Premier League start on Sunday.
Certainly with Curtis Jones suspended, you’d imagine he’ll be very much in the conversation.
Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai will be pretty certain starters. But for now, the third slot is up for grabs.
Having been taken off at half-time tonight, and given the way Brighton play, there’s perhaps a chance that Wataru Endo is given the nod by Jurgen Klopp.
The other option, besides Gravenberch, is Harvey Elliott. But with the 20-year-old getting the full 90 tonight – and not particularly impressing – we think he’ll be counted out.
So, on the back of what we saw at Anfield this evening, we’d be minded to throw Ryan back in. If not though, you get the feeling it won’t be long before he’s in full flow.
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