Steve Gerrard claims that Liverpool need not worry about a replacement for Raheem Sterling as he believes that Jordon Ibe is good enough to lead the forces at Anfield.
Gerrard, after his debut for LA Galaxy, said in the conference that Ibe, 20, has all the attributes to progress in Rodgers’ side.
“Ibe’s got tons of potential and tons of ability. I think it’s down to Jordon to grasp that position now Raheem has gone, if he can be mentally strong, hungry and want it, the stage is there for him to be a terrific wide-man for Liverpool. He’s certainly got all the tools. I am sure Brendan will give him the same time he gave Raheem and you saw how much he progressed Raheem over the years.”
Ibe claimed the man-of-the-match award after his terrific performance in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Adelaide United on their preseason tour of Australia. Ibe can still find his way in the first team despite the arrival of attacking stars Divock Origi, Roberto Firmino and Ings, with Christian Benteke yet to come.
Rodgers said: “I think he is still very young, he is still 19 years of age but you can see the potential in him. It is just him just continually working hard at his game, he has still got a long way to go for that consistency but everyone sees that potential.”
Youthful exuberance with pace and a high pressure game were the factors which helped Ibe claim a spot in Liverpool’s playing 11 in later half of last season. He can play on the right side of midfield rather than his usual winger role or a more central attacking role.
