Sheyi Ojo Wants to Match Dele Alli’s Breakout Season

Without European football, minutes could end up hard to come by at Liverpool in a packed attacking midfield that stands as by far the club’s deepest position and where Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho, Sadio Mané, and Adam Lallana all seem positioned to get the bulk of the minutes.

Then there are the likes of Gini Wijnaldum, James Milner, and Danny Ings, all of whom are set to play most often elsewhere but depending on injury and opponent could end up competing for time in the attacking support band. It could make things tough for Sheyi Ojo, but the young star is ready to fight for his chance.

“Last season was a memorable season for me,” the 19-year-old told FourFourTwo this week. “I’m looking to use that this season. I’m not where I want to be yet. There are a lot of things I need to do and a lot of hard work needs to be put in for me to get there. My main aim [now] is to break into the first team.”

Despite Liverpool’s depth at his positions, Ojo has at least made a strong case for that in pre-season where he has been one of the standouts. Last season wasn’t too shabby, either, as Ojo recorded a goal and four assists in 11 games for Liverpool after returning in January from a loan spell with Wolves.

Between eight appearances in the Premier League and three in the FA Cup for Liverpool, Ojo contributed a goal or assist every 90 minutes he was on the pitch, a stellar record that hints at Ojo’s very bright future. As for how bright, Ojo is hoping to replicate this season what Dele Alli did last year with Tottenham.

“Dele’s with the England squad and doing well for Tottenham,” said the young attacker. “Back then [at MK Dons] he had the same swagger he has now. The step up he’s made to the Premier League and the international stage is an inspiration for all young players [and] I’d like to follow in those footsteps.”