Meet Liverpool's rising star who can only play friendlies

What the report says

Liverpool’s pre-season has brought an unexpected spotlight on 18-year-old defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe, who has impressed in friendlies under new boss Andoni Iraola. The Austrian youth international has featured heavily because Liverpool are short in central defence, with injuries and absences limiting options. He has played substantial minutes in matches against teams including Sunderland, Wrexham and Monaco, and was given a start alongside Virgil van Dijk at Anfield.

However, BBC Sport reports that Ndukwe cannot yet appear in competitive fixtures for Liverpool because he does not currently meet the post-Brexit work permit requirements for England. The teenager, who joined from Austria Vienna in a deal agreed earlier this year and completed this summer after turning 18, does not have enough points for a Governing Body Endorsement. Liverpool also have limited alternative routes available under the Premier League’s Elite Significant Contribution system, which adds to the challenge of registering him for league action.

Ndukwe’s rise is still significant for Liverpool because it shows the club has identified a promising young defender who has already drawn praise from Van Dijk. The article says a loan move is likely, with a decision expected soon, and the aim would be to help him gain experience and the points needed for a future work permit. For now, he can continue in friendly matches, including Liverpool’s final pre-season game against Como.