The Rise of Jayden Danns: From Goal Machine to Liverpool Debut
Liverpool fans were buzzing with excitement as Jayden Danns made his debut for the team against Luton. This young forward has been making waves this season, and This Is Anfield had the opportunity to speak with Liverpool U18s coach Marc Bridge-Wilkinson about Danns’ rapid development.
Danns’ progression this season has been quite remarkable, according to Bridge-Wilkinson. Last season, he showed glimpses of his talent but found himself behind his teammate Lewis Koumas in the pecking order. However, this campaign has been a different story as he has come to the forefront for the U18s, progressed to the U21s, and now earned his first-team debut.
His appearance against Luton may have been brief, but it was a well-deserved reward for the hard work Danns has put in throughout the season. Both Jurgen Klopp and Bridge-Wilkinson recognize his ability and potential.
Bridge-Wilkinson spoke highly of Danns, praising his infectious personality, character, and attitude towards football. He commended Danns’ dedication to improving every day, which has not gone unnoticed by those who work with him. The coach believes that Danns will continue to make strides in his development.
Danns’ impressive goal-scoring record this season speaks for itself, with 21 goals to his name while playing as a striker for both the U18 and U21 sides. This outstanding performance earned him the opportunity to train with the first team.
Bridge-Wilkinson highlighted how this experience motivates the players when they return to the youth setup, as it allows them to witness firsthand the level of training and the techniques employed by top players. The coach emphasized the significant jump from the U18s to the first team, and he believes that witnessing this gap inspires the young players to put in even more effort.
Many may be familiar with the Danns name due to Jayden’s father, Neil Danns, who is the assistant manager of Tranmere and a former Premier League footballer himself. Jayden Danns is just one of several Liverpool academy players with famous footballing fathers, including Koumas and Bobby Clark.
Bridge-Wilkinson was asked whether having famous footballing fathers gives these players an advantage. While he acknowledged that there may be other children of Premier League players who do not reach this level, he believes that having supportive parents who reinforce the academy’s messages can have a positive impact on the players’ development.
It is refreshing to see Klopp’s trust in young players, as Liverpool fielded seven players aged 21 and under against Luton, the most ever in a league game for the Reds. While injuries have forced Klopp’s hand at times, his belief in the abilities of these young talents consistently pays off.
Jayden Danns’ rise from goal machine to making his Liverpool debut is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Liverpool fans should keep a close eye on this promising young forward as he continues to make his mark on the team.