Liverpool’s U21s welcomed Jayden Danns and James McConnell back from injury as Keyrol Figueroa marked his full debut with a goal in the 1-1 draw at Reading on Saturday.
Liverpool’s U21s saw the return of Jayden Danns and James McConnell from injury, with Keyrol Figueroa marking his full debut with a goal in a 1-1 draw against Reading on Saturday.
Both young players had made an impression under Jurgen Klopp last season but hadn’t featured in the current campaign until this latest match. Despite being linked with loan moves away from Anfield in the summer, injuries had put a stop to these plans.
Danns had been dealing with a back issue, while McConnell was sidelined due to a long-standing ankle problem. However, both were fit enough to make their first appearances of the season as Liverpool managed to recover from an early own goal to secure a draw.
The young Reds found themselves behind within the first two minutes when Josh Davidson scored an own goal under pressure from Emmanuel Osho. McConnell, playing in midfield, attempted to level the score with a solo effort that unfortunately deflected favourably for the goalkeeper.
Ranel Young was also denied before Figueroa – son of former Premier League defender and cult hero Maynor – had a shot from the edge of the box blocked. Liverpool managed to equalize just before half-time when Kieran Morrison, after receiving a pass from Lee Jonas on the right flank, beat his marker and delivered a low cross for Figueroa to tap into an open goal.
Figueroa, a United States youth international was making his full debut in Premier League 2 and was thrilled to mark it with a goal. Danns came on for the goalscorer at the 60-minute mark and almost celebrated his return with a goal of his own, but his shot, set up by Trey Nyoni, went wide.
McConnell, who started in midfield, was substituted along with Nyoni after 74 minutes. Despite having more shots and possession than the Royals, Liverpool was unable to find a winner. Goalkeeper Kornely Misciur made two late saves to deny the hosts. After nine games, the draw leaves Liverpool fourth in the Premier League 2 table.
Liverpool U21s: Misciur; Davidson, Nallo, Jonas, Norris; McConnell (Kone-Doherty 74), Morrison, Nyoni (Kelly 74); Figueroa (Danns 60), Pilling, Young (Pinnington 81).
