RIO SO GRAND WITH KOP

Ex-Chelsea whizz-kid Ngumoha is set for big future at Liverpool

- BY PAUL GORST

IN the bowels of Nottingham Forest's City Ground, Rio Ngumoha initially looked puzzled as reporters hoping to grab a word with the Liverpool winger asked for a minute of his time.

Having become a man on the pitch for Arne Slot’s side this season, and on the back of a decisive cameo off the bench in Sunday's 1-0 win at Forest, it was the only hint all afternoon the 17-year-old remains at the start of his football journey, as he reacted with surprise anyone would like to hear from him.

The teenager checked with club officials as to whether he was permitted to give a rare interview, only to be informed the decision was entirely his.

“It was a very good win,” he said. “We played well as a team and showed hunger and togetherness throughout the game.

“I just put balls into the box whenever the manager needs me. I need to provide everything I can give and just keep going on.”