Does Harry Wilson have a future at Liverpool?

Harry Wilson has been in impressive form for both club and country. Does the Welshman have a long-term future at Liverpool?

Harry Wilson marked his 21st birthday on Thursday with a goal and an assist in Wales’ 6-0 win over China. It was his first senior international appearance since October 2013, when he became the nation’s youngest ever player. His strong performance follows a string of impressive outings with loan club Hull and will have added further voice to the growing discussions surrounding his future.

The background

Wilson’s position at parent-club Liverpool is a curious one. He made his competitive debut in January 2017 but hasn’t featured again for the first team despite impressing at reserve level. A string of fellow academy graduates, including countryman Ben Woodburn, have been handed opportunities but he has been regularly overlooked. Not even a return of 10 goals in 12 U-23 appearances this season was enough to earn him another shot.

Bereft of senior game-time, Wilson opted for a loan move to Hull in January. It’s a decision which is paying off. With three goals in his first six Championship appearances, he’s helped steer Hull away from the relegation zone and earned himself a recall to the national team. His recent form has also earned him widespread praise and renewed calls for his inclusion in Liverpool’s senior side. But why isn’t he already a part of Jurgen Klopp’s plans?

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What does the future hold?

The immediate answer is simple: there’s just no place for him.

Whether operating as left-winger or as a left-footed right-winger, Wilson finds himself behind the duo of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. The pair have scored more than 30 league goals between them this season and are integral to the way Liverpool play. It’s unlikely the Welshman would have seen any real game-time given the form they’re in.

The more optimistic answer is that there’s just no place for him yet.

Liverpool have a serious lack of wide attacking depth. Salah and Mane have shown great endurance this season but if either was to pick up an injury the Reds would be in trouble. This is particularly so following Philippe Coutinho’s move to Barcelona in January. Wilson possess the pace and fluidity to fit seamlessly into Liverpool’s system and boasts a promising track record in front of goal. It was a surprise that he wasn’t promoted following Coutinho’s departure but perhaps Klopp wants to see more from him.

If that’s the case then Wilson has certainly stepped up to the challenge. His brilliant form with Hull and the national team is evidence that he’s taking on the gauntlet and winning. The experience on loan will prove invaluable and if he’s able to maintain his form he’ll surely have a future at Liverpool.