Football
ESPN staff 9y

Brendan Rodgers won't rush development of 'top-class' Jordon Ibe

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says Jordon Ibe can progress into a "top-class performer," but he won't rush the 19-year-old's progress.

Ibe made 12 Premier League appearances last season after being recalled from a loan to Derby, but the teenager is in line to see more of the pitch following Raheem Sterling's move to Manchester City.

Rodgers says his young winger has impressed in preseason after scoring Liverpool's only goal in a game in Malaysia.

"It's year-on-year improvement," Rodgers told Liverpool's website. "We mustn't forget he's still only 19. He broke into the team young and had some appearances.

"We felt he needed a loan, has gone out and did really well. Then when he came back last season he was exceptional in his performances. I think he really excites the supporters."

But Rodgers said he's willing to be patient while Ibe develops into his full potential.

The manager said: "He's definitely a player that we want to really create into a top-class performer, but we've got to give him that time and we're creating the environment for him to do that.

"You see how exciting he is, but he still has a lot of potential and work to do. He's one that certainly will feature heavily this year."

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