Thompson backs Ngumoha to grow from England call-up

Phil Thompson has praised Rio Ngumoha's latest England call-up and believes the experience will sharpen the 18-year-old's performances for Liverpool in the months ahead.

Thomas Tuchel named Ngumoha in his Three Lions squad for four UEFA Nations League fixtures over the next fortnight. The teenager made his senior international debut in June during a friendly against New Zealand ahead of the World Cup.

"I'm delighted for Rio and it's a special time getting called up," former Liverpool captain Thompson told Liverpoolfc.com. "You do feel a little bit inhibited as a young player going away with these senior players – I've been there."

Thompson urged Ngumoha to make the most of working alongside Tuchel's coaching staff. "When you go away with the best that England has to offer and you are a young player, you have to use that experience and listen and learn from other people and coaches – like Thomas Tuchel, who has so much experience," he said.

"I'd say to Rio: one, enjoy it, and two, listen and learn for every minute that you are going to be with the squad. I'm just so chuffed for him."

Thompson also highlighted the broader squad options the youngster provides at club level, adding that both Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni "have given Andoni Iraola great options for them both to start in matches."