Liverpool’s teenage starlet Rio Ngumoha continued his rapid rise with a sparkling display in their 3-1 pre-season win over Preston North End at Deepdale on Sunday afternoon.

The 16-year-old forward, who has Nigerian roots and represents England at U17 level, was trusted with a starting spot by new Reds boss Arne Slot. This marked Ngumoha’s first start since his senior debut in January 2025 — and he didn’t disappoint.

Ngumoha wasted no time making his mark. In just the fourth minute, he danced down the left wing, sending in a dangerous cross which Preston only narrowly cleared. Minutes later, he weaved into the box again, forcing a corner after his deflected effort nearly broke the deadlock.

The youngster’s flair and confidence were on full display in the 33rd minute, as he was central to the build-up for Liverpool’s opener. After slicing through Preston’s defence, he linked up with Federico Chiesa, whose pass eventually led to Conor Bradley tapping home after smart interplay with Dominik Szoboszlai.

Darwin Núñez added Liverpool’s second shortly after the break, with Preston pulling one back through Liam Lindsay in the closing stages. Cody Gakpo’s late penalty sealed the Reds’ comfortable win.

Ngumoha was taken off at half-time after a promising shift, with fans buzzing over his exciting potential. Meanwhile, Preston gave a runout to Odel Offiah, their new summer signing, in the second half.

Liverpool are currently locked in talks with Ngumoha’s camp over his first professional contract, as the former Chelsea wonderkid turns 17 next month.

Anfield faithful have every reason to be excited — a star is emerging.