Head coach of Liverpool Under-23s Michael Beale has heaped praises on Liverpool Nigerian teen star Ovie Ejaria, who made his first team bow in last night 3-0 win over Derby County in the EFL Cup.
Ejaria replaced Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino in the 78 minutes, bringing to 9 the number of players from Liverpool Academy that have made their debut for the first team since last season.
Released by Arsenal in 2014 after nine years at the club, Beale who used to drive the Nigerian to training when he joined Liverpool newly said it’s a fantastic development that he has finally make the grade at Anfield.
Beale told This Is Anfield: “It’s a fantastic achievement for Ovie to make his debut.”
“Great faith is being shown in all the young players by Jurgen and his staff. Again they have shown that if a player has the ability and personality to play for our first team that opportunities will come for them.”
Ovie has developed so much since he joined the academy,” praised Beale.
“He has always been a lovely technical player but now he is much more mature in his decision making and in his application to his defensive duties.
“He is a fantastic boy to work with both for his ability and also his desire to learn and improve. This has enabled him to make huge developments in the last 12 months.”
“I am very pleased for him and his family,” added Beale.
