With Raheem Sterling only 20-years-old, it may be odd to suggest Liverpool already have the new version of their star coming through, but in Jordon Ibe, they could well possess another amazing talent.
Oddly they are born on the same day of the year (December 8th, one year apart), both grew up in London and both occupy similar positions on the pitch.
And as well as these comparisons, their playing styles appear alike, with the duo keen to take on opponents, get forward and drive into the area to support their attackers. So, have Liverpool unearthed another gem? Maybe, and here are FIVE reasons why…
Raw talent
We may have only seen a glimpse of Ibe, but it’s fair clear to say that the youngster looks to have ability. His tendency to take on his man from wide and drive into the box was something the Reds missed down the left flank through Alberto Moreno against Everton, making the teenager’s impact all the more impressive.
Although he’s only been back on Merseyside for a few weeks there are some statistics to back up Ibe’s effect, with his take-on numbers impressive. Per 90 minutes the wide-man completes, on average, four duels with his opponents, coming out with a 62.5% success rating. This figure is higher than that of the likes of Sterling, Lazar Markovic and Adam Lallana. He also has a better shot accuracy rating, although a lack of game time slightly skews that reading.
Unfazed by the big stage
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Although re-calling Ibe from a successful spell with a good Championship side in the shape of Derby halfway through the season suggested that Rodgers was ready to use the starlet, a start in the Merseyside derby was a little unexpected. Alas, the Northern Irishman took the plunge, and although the team’s showing was a little forgettable, the flying winger offered signs of positivity.
Any youngster being thrown into a start against bitter rivals on their own patch could have been forgiven for shrinking away from the game, but Ibe looked as if he was playing in the park with his pals, as he drove past Bryan Oviedo on numerous occasions and lit up the first half with a stunning effort that hit the post from over 20 yards.
Versatility
A winger by trade, Ibe’s first start since his comeback at Anfield was at right wing-back… a big ask in a fierce derby. But, like Sterling – who has featured in just about every role in the final third for Liverpool – Ibe took to the position well and never really looked out of place.
Okay, the role in a Rodgers team is far more winger than full-back, but the teenager didn’t shirk his defensive responsibilities, often helping out the back three that successfully kept the Toffees at bay.
Pace and power
Sterling is known for his deceiving level of strength, and Ibe looks to be built from the same stuff. The wide-man is a little stockier than his ‘senior’ team-mate and looks less likely to get knocked down – which is reflected by a relatively low fouls suffered stat of less than one per game since his Merseyside return – which will stand him in good stead.
Although bulkier than Sterling, Ibe seems to be just as quick across the turf, which he showed as he surged down the right flank numerous times against Everton.
Confidence
Tying in a little bit with how unfazed he was by the game against Everton, Ibe looks to be a confident individual with a feisty streak. Against Everton he tangled with Besic and certainly gave as good as he got against the solid Toffees midfielder.
As well as this, he completed numerous take-ons, frequently pushed into the box and was often involved in final third play – which is shown by his heat-map from Goodison Park.