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News
Peter Crouch seriously impressed by Liverpool display of Rhys Williams
Peter Crouch gave immense credit to Liverpool teenager Rhys Williams for his performance in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The 19-year-old defender came into the starting XI to help the Reds secure an emphatic 5-0 victory away to Italian side Atalanta in the Champions League group stages.
It was only the youngster’s fifth senior appearance, but he slotted into the backline nicely alongside Joe Gomez and was an excellent stand-in to help cover for a number of defensive absentees through injury.
Williams, who has been with Liverpool since Under-10 age level, has developed all the way through the Merseyside club’s academy and is now in the first-team picture.
Remarkably the English centre-back is yet to play a single minutes in the Premier League, but he’s played three times now in the Champions League and two more in the League Cup.
Former Liverpool striker Crouch was left massively impressed with the composed display from Williams.
“Rhys Williams didn’t put a foot wrong, I thought he was fantastic. He’s proved an adequate replacement. He’s definitely one for the future,”
TBR’s View:
Williams was made to defend against some top-class forwards in midweek and the inexperienced academy graduate showed no signs of weakness, as he looked composed on the ball and was confident in his defensive work.
It’s a chance for him this season to try break into the senior squad, as the long-term injury to Virgil van Dijk does open a window of opportunity.
Williams is unlikely to be pushing for a starting position, but a spot in the squad would be extremely encouraging and importantly manager Jurgen Klopp has proven he’s willing to promote players if they have the talent.