Liverpool prodigy Rio Ngumoha explains how Barcelona superstar has inspired young footballers: ‘He plays as if…’

Liverpool prodigy Rio Ngumoha explains how Barcelona superstar has inspired young footballers: ‘He plays as if…’ Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha has credited Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal with changing the way young footballers approach the game, describing the teenager as one of the best players in the world.  Speaking in an interview with The Independent , the 18-year-old England international highlighted how Yamal’s confidence, freedom and performances at such a young age have inspired the next generation. Ngumoha’s comments come ahead of England’s November Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain.  Thomas Tuchel has included the Liverpool winger in his squad following his encouraging performances at club level, potentially giving him an opportunity to face the Barcelona star when England meet Spain. Ngumoha sees Yamal as an inspiration for young players Speaking during a lengthy interview, Ngumoha did not hide his admiration when asked about the Barcelona winger, whose development has established him among the leading young talents in European football. Rio Ngumoha sees Lamine Yamal as an inspiration. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) “I think what he’s doing has changed football for young players. He’s extraordinary. He’s one of the best in the world,” said Ngumoha when asked about the Barcelona star. The Liverpool forward believes Yamal’s performances show that young footballers should not be afraid to express themselves or take responsibility on the pitch.  Rather than allowing their age to restrict their ambitions, they can use his example as encouragement to play with confidence. “Seeing what he can do at such a young age inspires me and all the other young players to play freely.  “He plays as if the pitch were his own. It’s a great challenge,” noted the Reds’ forward. England call-up pit Ngumoha against Yamal Rio Ngumoha could come up against Yamal later this month. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images) Ngumoha’s admiration for Yamal could soon become a personal challenge.  This is because England are scheduled to face Croatia on November 12 before travelling to Spain on November 15 at the Metropolitano, with the latter fixture potentially bringing the two young wingers onto the same pitch. At 18, Ngumoha is the youngest player in Tuchel’s November England squad and has already made his senior international debut.  Yamal, on the other hand, is an established member of Barcelona and Spain’s setup, and a meeting with the Spaniard would offer Ngumoha an opportunity to test himself against a player whose development he clearly admires.