Josh Sonni-Lambie poised to lead Liverpool U21 attack amid injury setbacks
Liverpool’s academy setup continues to show its strength and resilience, with 17-year-old Josh Sonni-Lambie stepping into the spotlight ahead of a crucial UEFA Youth League fixture against Eintracht Frankfurt. Under the guidance of U21s coach Rob Page, the young Reds are building quietly but impressively in Europe, relying on discipline, defensive organisation and flashes of youthful flair.
Defensive solidity shaping promising campaign
While the senior side has endured moments of inconsistency this season, Liverpool’s under-19s have demonstrated admirable focus. Two clean sheets from their opening UEFA Youth League matches – a 0-0 draw at home to Atletico Madrid and a 2-0 win away to Galatasaray – have provided the foundation for a confident start.
The structure implemented by Rob Page has been crucial, ensuring that even with a reshuffled front line, Liverpool remain compact and composed. Assistant coach Simon Wiles has also played a key role in blending the tactical education of the U18s with the physical demands of European youth football.
Young forward seizing opportunity
With injuries to key strikers Jayden Danns and Will Wright, Liverpool’s attacking options have been stretched. Yet the emergence of Josh Sonni-Lambie has softened that blow. The forward has been in outstanding form, scoring nine goals across competitions this season, including a crucial strike in Istanbul against Galatasaray.
Sonni-Lambie’s rise through the ranks has been rapid. His recent start for the U21s in the EFL Trophy defeat to Crewe Alexandra was seen as an important milestone — a sign that his development is being carefully managed, but also accelerated in recognition of his potential.
Growing influence under Rob Page
Page’s faith in Sonni-Lambie reflects the Welsh coach’s approach to youth development: meritocracy built on effort, consistency and technical growth. The teenager’s maturity in and out of possession has impressed the staff at Kirkby, with his pressing, positional awareness and finishing ability marking him out as one of the academy’s brightest prospects.
Speaking ahead of the Frankfurt match, Sonni-Lambie told Liverpool’s official channels: “We’re really looking forward to it. We played really well in our last game, and it was nice to get a goal. Hopefully, we can keep that going. It’s always special to travel and represent this club in Europe. We just want to continue our good run and give everything we’ve got.”
Frankfurt test offers another step forward
Liverpool face Eintracht Frankfurt this afternoon at Sportpark Dreieich, the midway point of their Youth League group phase. Frankfurt currently sit 19th in the overall table, having opened with a dominant 4-0 win over Galatasaray before losing narrowly to Atletico Madrid.
For Liverpool, ranked 12th after two matches, the aim is clear — maintain their defensive shape, trust their attacking rhythm and continue giving opportunities to players like Sonni-Lambie who are proving they can handle the challenge.
The match represents not just another test in Europe, but a reflection of the academy’s direction under Page — one that prizes tactical discipline and emotional resilience as much as technical excellence. With Sonni-Lambie leading the line, Liverpool’s next generation appear in confident hands.
