Grujic Returns, Gomez Scores in U-23 Win

Prior to the start of the season, 20-year-old Serbian starlet was one of the exciting ones to watch, especially after a strong showing in preseason. However, the former Red Star Belgrade man has struggled to remain fit, but hopefully that is changing.

Grujic got his first run-out for Liverpool since November, and played for a full hour before being pulled for fellow midfielder Matthew Virtue.

The Reds run rampant on the night, defeating Reading 5-1. Joe Gomez—whose own struggles for fitness are well-known—opened up the scoring by volleying home a Harry Wilson corner.

A pleasant surprise on the night came courtesy of Rhian Brewster, a 16-year-old striker, making just his fourth appearance for the U-23s. Brewster scored twice in the first half, allowing the youths to enter the break with a 3-1 advantage.

Wilson nabbed his second assist of the night by picking out Ben Woodburn for a close-range finish, and Nathan Phillips became the second defender of the night to score, finishing things off in second half stoppage time. Sheyi Ojo was, as Papa Lucas might say, “unlucky,” clattering not one, but two shots off the post (the second of which was finished by Brewster).

All in all, a good night for the yutes, with some strong performances from many up-and-coming players.