The match stats alone showed just how much of a threat Ngumoha can be.
He made 12 touches in the opponent’s area, completed seven out of eight dribbles and recorded two assists.
But watching Ngumoha is more than just an experience in numbers. There is a fearless nature to his game that can get the crowd going, and he was the only bright spark in a first half where Liverpool lacked pace.
In a game increasingly focused on structures, Ngumoha’s raw ability to take on a man is what helps set him apart.
“He was magnificent tonight,” former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge said on Amazon Prime.
“On the ball, this kid has so much potential – and I say ‘kid’, but he’s a young man. He has so many qualities and those are things you can’t teach to be honest.
“What he does with the ball at his feet – it’s a God-given ability – and his hard work on the training pitch, doing things day in and day out and being ruthless, that’s what he said in his interview, and I like that. He wants to be decisive, and I like that.”
Ngumoha, who grew up playing on the left side, has struggled to get minutes on his favorite team this season, especially with Cody Gakpo and Barcola often downplaying that flank.
But head coach Andoni Iraola wants his wingers to be able to play on both sides and Ngumoha’s improvement on the right flank has been impressive in such a short space of time.
Ngumoha also spoke about his rapid development on the right on Saturday, after Liverpool beat Brentford.
“I feel like I’ve played a lot better there since the Newcastle game (early this season) until now,” Ngumoha said.
“I understand better. And going to England has also helped me a lot. I like playing on both sides. It gives me another tool in the toolbox.”
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