Could this be the season that Rhian Brewster gets to show what he can do on the big stage for Liverpool?
The 19-year-old striker grabbed the headlines after he helped Jurgen Klopp’s side dismantle Tranmere 6-0 in their first pre-season friendly on Thursday.
He scored twice and made another after playing the first 45 minutes last night and both goals showcased his predatory instincts.
His first came from a short-range header from a Harry Wilson cross, the second just before half-time when Tranmere keeper Scott Davies parried a shot from James Milner.
Klopp is a fan. He was quoted on the official Liverpool website as saying: “Rhian Brewster is a top striker, a top talent… I told him already, he has an important role this year – but how important? Again, it depends on him… He has to play different positions as well because the centre is OK, wing I think is possible, and then we will see how we can line up. There will be opportunities for him, I am really sure.”
That he’s a part of Klopp’s plans is huge for Brewster after a serious injury in January 2018 saw him miss a whole year of development.
Sadio Mane is still playing in the Africa Cup of Nations and will miss most if not all of Liverpool’s pre-season, as will Xherdan Shaqiri who is still out with an injury he got in the Nations League.
That opens the door for Brewster and he looks determined to make the most of his opportunity.
Plenty of Liverpool fans are convinced that he will feature next season and were on Twitter praising his display against Tranmere:
Nice opening 6-0 win to start pre season. May have only been Tranmere but these youngsters are looking quality!
Brewster def one to watch this season! #lfc— Jonathan Holmes ??????? (@Holmes1978) July 12, 2019
Right, so a proper disposal of Tranmere Rovers via a 6:0 result, some depth lads getting a go at it, Brewster is exciting, Origi’s gorgeous, and the warm/fuzzy feeling of #LFC footy is back again. Sunday versus Bradford City. #YNWA
— Studs Up Footy (@StudsUpFooty) July 12, 2019
https://twitter.com/curtis_white29/status/1149459323808079873
Rhian Brewster , Watch out for this kid #LFC
— Nick (@nicky_fizzy) July 11, 2019
Good way to kick off the preseason tour with a 0-6 win against our dear neighbours Tranmere Rovers.Loads of youth players did well and a special mention to Rhian Brewster for that brace – a player who Klopp is adamant will have a key role to play in the upcoming season.#LFC ??
— ?? KNOX ?? (@NavinRB) July 11, 2019
Brewster was fantastic really looking forward to see what the future has in store for him he's going to be a top player.
2 of the goals he scored were typical strikers goals and his assist was brilliant for Clyne's goal.#LFC #TRALIV
— Rob Evans (@Rob_Evans10) July 11, 2019
Well no wonder Jurgen is happy with the squad. Rhian Brewster will save us millions and Ki Jana Hoever is incredible. #LFC
— Owen Webb O Rourke (@OwenWebbORourke) July 11, 2019
Good run out tonight. Brewster is going to get some game time this year i am sure of it. #brewster #LFC #LFCPreSeason
— Chris Wellman (@Tiff5757) July 11, 2019
It's great to see Brewster scoring a brace today! He has huge potential. Hopefully he will stay fit and I have no doubts that he will have a great career ahead of him #LFC
— Ville Ilonen (@VilleIlonen) July 11, 2019