Heskey backs Ngumoha as Salah cover but demands Liverpool growth

Former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey believes Rio Ngumoha could develop into an option to cover for Mohamed Salah, but says the teenager must improve before taking on that responsibility. Heskey identified the winger’s ability and potential while stressing that he cannot yet be expected to reproduce Salah’s goalscoring output.

Ngumoha is 17 and plays primarily on the left wing for Liverpool. He has also been used on the right during pre-season and developmental matches, a switch that could be important if he is to offer cover in the role associated with Salah.

Heskey’s assessment is that Ngumoha must become more adaptable in his decision-making. The former striker believes the youngster’s direct dribbling can draw defenders away from their positions and open spaces for Liverpool, but his overall game needs to become more consistent before he can be considered a direct replacement for an elite scorer.

Ngumoha has made the move through Liverpool’s youth system after joining the club’s under-18 side from Chelsea’s academy in the 2024/25 season. He subsequently progressed from Liverpool Under-18s to the senior club in 2025/26. His current market value is listed at €30 million.

The teenager is eligible to represent both England and Nigeria. His development gives Liverpool a young internal option on the wings, although Heskey’s comments underline the gap between promise and the production Salah has provided. Ngumoha’s ability to operate on either flank may increase his opportunities, but his role remains one that requires further growth rather than an immediate like-for-like succession.