Dominic Solanke (ENG), MAY 20, 2017 - Football / Soccer : 2017 FIFA U-20 Wolrd Cup Group A match between Argentina 0-3 England at Jeonju World Cup Stadium in Suwon, South Korea. (Photo by Sho Tamura/AFLO SPORT)

Dominic Solanke named U20 World Cup Player of the Tournament

Liverpool’s incoming signing Dominic Solanke was rewarded for a superb U20 World Cup campaign by being named the tournament’s star player.

Solanke and his young England teammates, including fellow Reds pair Sheyi Ojo and Ovie Ejaria, sealed glory in South Korea, with the Three Lions beating Venezuela 1-0 in the final.

It has been an excellent few weeks for Liverpool’s newest signing – he will officially sign from Chelsea on July 1 – and he ended the competition as its second-highest scorer, with four goals.

Solanke’s all-round game has stood out, however, and his efforts saw him named the Player of the Tournament shortly after Sunday’s final.

His quality on the ball, impressive physical frame and speed make the 19-year-old a striker of huge potential, and Liverpool supporters are understandably excited about him.

Previous winners of the award include Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Luis Figo, Sergio Aguero and Paul Pogba – not a bad selection of names!

It remains to be seen how Jurgen Klopp will use Solanke next season, but he has certainly not done his chances of featuring regularly any harm.

A new top-level marksman is expected to arrive at Anfield at some point during the summer, but Daniel Sturridge and Danny Ings‘ futures remain uncertain, and Divock Origi has failed to kick on.

It may be that Klopp puts Solanke into the U23s, as he continues to develop, but if he believes the youngster can be a reliable first-team member, the Liverpool manager will not hesitate in giving him a chance to shine.

More from This Is Anfield

Fan Comments