OPINION
The thought that Liverpool were going to sell winger Harry Wilson this summer has always seemed like it would turn out to be a big mistake.
The Welsh international enjoyed a phenomenal loan spell with Derby County in the Championship last season, and has returned to Anfield a much better player. However, he’s still a little way off being ready to challenge for consistent first team football.
For that reason, his seemingly-impending loan move to Premier League outfit Bournemouth is the ideal next step for him on the road to becoming an important Liverpool player in the future.
Sky Sports reported on Tuesday that the Cherries are in talks with the Reds over a season-long loan for the 22-year-old. From a Premier League-chasing team like Derby to a middle table top flight side in Bournemouth – that’s the perfect gradual step up for Wilson.
The critical thing here is game time, and Wilson will undoubtedly get that at The Vitality Stadium. Eddie Howe’s side have one of the finest wingers outside the top six in Ryan Fraser, but have already suffered a loss in midfield with the injury to David Brooks.
With Fraser operating on the left hand side of midfield, that leaves spots on the right and through the middle that Wilson would appear to be well placed to claim.
As per WhoScored.com, he outperformed Cherries wingers Jordon Ibe and Junior Stanislas in a host of offensive statistical categories last time out, while beating Fraser in a couple, as well.
The Welshman scored the most goals of the quartet – albeit in the Championship – while having the most shots at goal per game and being fouled most often.
Clearly he is good enough to form a monopoly on one side of the Bournemouth midfield, with Fraser on the opposite flank. That’s a quality duo out wide for Howe.
Mostly, though, this is a terrific move for Liverpool, because Wilson will be learning under a tremendous young manager who will improve him and ensures he returns to Anfield ready to rock.
