Brendan Rodgers tips Jordon Ibe to make his mark

Tuesday 27 Jan 2015
Jordon Ibe returned to Liverpool after a successful spell on loan at Derby

Jordon Ibe will soon get his chance in the Liverpool first team, according to Reds boss Brendan Rodgers.

The England U20 international was recalled to Anfield last week after a successful loan spell with Championship promotion chasers Derby County.

During his time with the Rams, the former Wycombe Wanderers forward netted five times in 25 appearances, and impressed throughout his four-month stint. 

And upon recalling him, Rodgers has promised the youngster has a bright future ahead.

Jordon Ibe in action for England U20s against Canada

"He's now back in the squad having had a great period on loan with Derby," he said.

"I thank them for that – Steve McClaren and his staff and the club did great for Jordon."

Ibe, who has appeared for England at U18, U19 and U20 levels, came off the bench during Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League victory at Aston Villa earlier this month.

But the 19-year-old had to sit out of The FA Cup tie with Bolton Wanderers last weekend, having already featured for Derby earlier in the competition.

However, Rodgers said that Ibe had come back from an improved player, and would not have to wait long to get his chance.

"He has come back improved because of the experiences," he added.

Jordon Ibe scored five times during his time at Derby County

"We've got a number of other young players that, over the next couple of years, will get the chance to come in and develop, and Jordon will be one of them."

Rodgers also took time out to praise fellow England youth international Jordan Rossiter, and said that the pair show the strength of the young English talent available to him.

"They really fit in with the work," he added. 

"Alex Inglethorpe does a wonderful job at the Academy in terms of aligning the players to the philosophy and how we want to work here.

"They train and work a lot with the first team. 

"There's a great relationship there between both. In the next few years we'll see the fruits of that."

By Jamie Reid Senior Writer