Liverpool teenager Trey Nyoni has been praised for letting his performances do the talking as fellow youngster JJ Gabriel makes headlines by pushing for a Manchester United exit.
Gabriel is one of the most highly rated young players to emerge from the United academy in years, having played several years above his age group and been tipped for a first-team debut this season. However, he surprised the club by demanding a move elsewhere, with Real Madrid seen as his most likely destination.
Nyoni's Progress at Anfield
At Anfield, Nyoni has continued to strengthen his case for more involvement despite Liverpool boasting a strong list of midfield options. The 19-year-old scored his first professional goal in last week's defeat at Fenerbahce.
Former Liverpool player Jason McAteer said "thriving on the pitch is the ultimate message" as Nyoni keeps the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai out of the team.
McAteer's Verdict
McAteer, who spent four years at Liverpool, told Casino Kings: "The fans love that: the energy, the passion, the desire and the commitment. You give that to football fans, and they give back. Nyoni's doing that in his own way through his performances."
He added on the challenges facing Nyoni: "Liverpool, Chelsea, City and Arsenal can go into the transfer market and spend under a million easily. The opportunity is even more limited for these younger players. You have to be special."
McAteer continued: "I hope it works out for him. He's a talent, and we've seen very talented youngsters go by the wayside because of the noise around them, the team around them, and their ego pushing them in the wrong direction. They've missed out on a great career. So let's hope that doesn't happen."
Nyoni's Confidence
Nyoni has made 13 appearances in all competitions and is one of several Liverpool youngsters given opportunities by Iraola. Lewis Koumas and Rio Ngumoha have also enjoyed outings for the Reds, with Nyoni hailing his coach for backing him.
The teenager said: "I don't get nervous, never. The faith in youth the manager has and the players around me have in me, that helps me settle a lot more. Being young, there are lots of senior players around me who help me a lot. I just want to stay as I am. For me, I never get nervous."
