There was a big concern at the start of the summer transfer window that the sheer amount of players Liverpool were linked to (and, eventually signed) would mean that young Jordan Ibe would once again be loaned out to gain more experience.
With the likes of Lazar Markovic, Raheem Sterling, Adam Lallana – amongst others, it seemed that the young wing star would be way down the pecking order and eventually be shipped out again, but Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has allayed those fears today, by confirming that the club has big plans for Ibe this season.
The departure (and lack of replacement) for Sterling means there is a big role to fill and Rodgers, like most Liverpool fans, seemingly believes that Ibe has what it takes to fill that gap.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Rodgers said: “It’s year-on-year improvement.
“We mustn’t forget he’s still only 19. He broke into the team young and had some appearances. We felt he needed a loan, has gone out and did really well.
“Then when he came back last season he was exceptional in his performances. I think he really excites the supporters.
“He’s definitely a player that we want to really create into a top-class performer, but we’ve got to give him that time and we’re creating the environment for him to do that.
“You see how exciting he is, but he still has a lot of potential and work to do. He’s one that certainly will feature heavily this year.”
There is absolutely no doubt that Ibe has the ability to be as good as Sterling over the next 12 months, whilst many see his stronger physique and more mature attitude as an indicator that he could potentially be better than the former Liverpool youngster, with some even comparing Ibe – favourably – to Liverpool legend John Barnes. However, it is important that too much pressure is not laid at the 19 year old’s feet, as Rodgers says.
Can young Ibe go on to become a top attacker at Liverpool? Let us know your thoughts on the young winger below.
Provided he does “feature heavily this year” he can only thrive. His workrate, attitude and maturity is why the fans love him – and his talent of course!
shake off any injury problems IBE and u will one day grab the ballon d’or. U are one of our best
Remember he can play the two wings