16-year-old Trey Nyoni named on the bench for Liverpool vs Brentford
The team sheets are in for Liverpool's clash against Brentford this afternoon and many eyes have been turning to a surprise name listed among the substitutes: 16-year-old Trey Nyoni.
The inclusion of the young prodigy adds an element of excitement for Liverpool supporters, as manager Jurgen Klopp continues to demonstrate his commitment to promoting academy talent, albeit in rather unwanted circumstances.
The Reds currently find themselves rather light in the midfield department as Alexis Mac Allister serves a one-game ban having picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Luton, and with both Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch picking up niggling injuries.
In the trio's absence, Klopp has chosen a midfield of Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo for the 2pm kick-off at Anfield.
Who is Trey Nyoni?
Nyoni, who only joined Liverpool from Leicester in September, has swiftly risen through the ranks to catch the eye of the coaching staff.
The attacking midfielder started Academy life with the U18s and on his home debut in Kirkby netted a dramatic, stoppage-time winner in the Merseyside derby against Everton.
Earlier this week, Nyoni made his first-ever appearance for the under 21s as they lost 2-1 to Barrow in the Papa John's Trophy.
Second-youngest
This unexpected opportunity marks yet another pivotal moment in the youngster's fledgling career, and Reds fans are eager to witness what the promising youngster can bring to the pitch.
Should he make his debut today at 16 years, 4 months, and 135 days old, Nyoni would be the second-youngest player to don the famous Red shirt in a senior game.