Liverpool scouts' mystery target
BY:RAY GATT
From:The Australian
July 24, 2013 12:00AM
NO matter the result of tonight's exhibition match against Melbourne Victory, English giant Liverpool will not only walk away with thousands of new fans but could add another Australian to the list of those who have worn the famous red jersey.
As much as the focus of Liverpool's Asian tour is on its preparation for the new English Premier League season, which kicks off next month, the club has already taken the opportunity to gauge the junior football talent here.
And, according to Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, it appears it has uncovered a gem. But a gem destined to remain hidden, as the club refuses to reveal details of the young player.
Speaking with The Australian yesterday, the Northern Irishman admitted the club's head of recruitment had discovered a 15-year-old he has described as "absolutely outstanding".
"We are always looking to bring in great young talent and our head of recruitment may have found one," Rodgers said enthusiastically.
"I'm not sure where he drove to, but he watched a game outside of Melbourne.
"The pitch was not in the best condition, but he spotted a kid who was absolutely outstanding and he is just 15. That's the sort of talent you have here."
However, Liverpool officials were adamant last night they would not reveal any information about the youngster because they wanted to protect him at this stage and not alert other clubs to his talent.
Perhaps, in years to come, he could join the likes of Craig Johnston, Harry Kewell and, currently, goalkeeper Brad Jones who have worn the red shirt.
"It goes to show you just how good Australians are at sport," Rodgers said. "Clearly they have taken to many sports and football is one of them.
"I've seen the Australian game develop and improve drastically in the last 10 years or so."
BY:RAY GATT
From:The Australian
July 24, 2013 12:00AM
NO matter the result of tonight's exhibition match against Melbourne Victory, English giant Liverpool will not only walk away with thousands of new fans but could add another Australian to the list of those who have worn the famous red jersey.
As much as the focus of Liverpool's Asian tour is on its preparation for the new English Premier League season, which kicks off next month, the club has already taken the opportunity to gauge the junior football talent here.
And, according to Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, it appears it has uncovered a gem. But a gem destined to remain hidden, as the club refuses to reveal details of the young player.
Speaking with The Australian yesterday, the Northern Irishman admitted the club's head of recruitment had discovered a 15-year-old he has described as "absolutely outstanding".
"We are always looking to bring in great young talent and our head of recruitment may have found one," Rodgers said enthusiastically.
"I'm not sure where he drove to, but he watched a game outside of Melbourne.
"The pitch was not in the best condition, but he spotted a kid who was absolutely outstanding and he is just 15. That's the sort of talent you have here."
However, Liverpool officials were adamant last night they would not reveal any information about the youngster because they wanted to protect him at this stage and not alert other clubs to his talent.
Perhaps, in years to come, he could join the likes of Craig Johnston, Harry Kewell and, currently, goalkeeper Brad Jones who have worn the red shirt.
"It goes to show you just how good Australians are at sport," Rodgers said. "Clearly they have taken to many sports and football is one of them.
"I've seen the Australian game develop and improve drastically in the last 10 years or so."
