Liverpool's Youth Problem

Some players have that innate talent that when they get on the ball it is impossible not to notice them. Others are always doing the hard work that goes unappreciated but which is vital for the team to succeed. Indeed it could be argued that whilst the brilliance of the individual might occasionally win matches, it is what those around him do that usually plays the key role.

It is in this second category that Robbie Threlfall fits in. Strong and powerful, he knows his job – that of left-back - well and carries it out extremely well. He might not be the one to win the games, but ensures that those can have every opportunity to do so.

Yet, for all his good qualities, he is also unfortunate in that blocking his way to the first team there are three internationals which he is unlikely to displace. On top of this there are the continuous injuries which have regularly interrupted his career, meaning that it isn’t that difficult to see why he is still playing for Liverpool’s reserves.

Actually, it is. Threlfall might not be ready to push on to play in the Permiership but he seems good enough to play at least in the Championship. Which is were the major surprise comes in because so far in his career, the only ones that have expressed an interest in him have been either Second Division or low ranking First Division sides.

Last week Threlfall had the opportunity of going out on loan to Darlington, currently rooted at the bottom of League Two with just two points. Initially, it looked as if he was going to accept but then decided against it.

Good move for him. Despite the presence of Steve Staunton, the recently appointed manager at the club, it is difficult to see what he would have gained by going there. It certainly wouldn’t have furthered his prospects at Liverpool and it is doubtful whether it would have allowed him to attract the attention of some club higher up the league structure.

The thing is: why is it that only small clubs seem to be interested in our young players? Is it lack of contacts? Do Liverpool scare off potential suitors with excessive demands? Or is it, quite simply, that the players themselves aren’t good enough?

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