Liverpool skipper, Virgil van Dijk, has urged youngster Rio Ngumoha to remain grounded and continue working hard after the 16-year-old netted a last-gasp winner in the Reds’ dramatic triumph over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
The Premier League champions appeared set to squander two points after relinquishing a 2-0 advantage, with the fourth official signaling 11 minutes of added time.
Despite being reduced to 10 men following Anthony Gordon’s dismissal in the first half, Newcastle looked the more likely side to snatch victory.
But Ngumoha, handed his debut in the top flight, needed only four minutes to make his mark, firing home a low cross to seal the contest deep into stoppage time.
“It’s a dream debut for him,” Van Dijk told Sky Sports. “I think that whole attack was quite good. Harvey started it, the dummy [from Szoboszlai], it was the perfect attack.
“We stayed calm towards the end and tried to find the right solution. I’m very pleased for Rio. He has to keep working hard and stay humble, but he has to enjoy tonight as he can’t take it for granted.
“I’m sure with the players we have, he’ll be back at training tomorrow having a hard session.”
