Jude Bellingham predicted a bright Liverpool future for Rio Ngumoha after handing the youngster his first England cap on Saturday.
Ngumoha stood out for England during a drab 1-0 win over New Zealand, coming off the bench at half-time to inject some life into the Three Lions’ display.
Having subsequently been voted as the Player of the Match by England fans, the Liverpool talent was then handed a commemorative cap by Bellingham, who delivered a few kind words in the dressing room.
You can only pick ONE player for Liverpool to sign this summer, who is it?
Who should Richard Hughes be targeting above all…
Bellingham impressed by Ngumoha’s England debut
Bellingham knows what it is like to be in Ngumoha’s shoes as a highly-rated young talent breaking into the national team set-up.
The Liverpool teenager has now actually become the youngest player to play for England since Bellingham five years ago.
As a result, it was fitting that the Real Madrid superstar was the one to salute Ngumoha in front of the rest of the squad in the changing room on Saturday.
“Congratulations on an amazing debut, I think we all enjoyed watching it,” Bellingham said before predicting something about Ngumoha’s Liverpool career.
READ MORE: English press react as ‘livewire’ Rio Ngumoha earns man of the match on senior international debut
“Obviously you’re going to have a really bright future at the club,” he said. “And hopefully with us as well.
“It’s a pleasure to give it to you because I know there’ll be so many more. So, congratulations.”
Urged to give a speech of his own, Ngumoha kept it short and sweet as he thanked the England players for their support.
“Thank you everyone,” he said. “I’m happy, I’m speechless! I just want to say thank you and we keep going.”
Applause rang out as Ngumoha headed back to his seat knowing he had just boosted his growing reputation even further.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
