
Matt from This Is Anfield has given us the lowdown on what to expect from our latest recruit, following Jayden Danns' deadline day arrival.
So, Jayden Danns to Sunderland. Happy with that?
Yeah, I like it a lot. I always think young players are better heading out on loan to a club in a positive mood than one where they're struggling and need the youngster to perform, creating too much pressure.
Of course, it does also mean he might not get as much playing time but the different environment and regular squad inclusion will be worth a lot in terms of experience.
What do Liverpool fans think of Danns?
We like him a lot! His interview after scoring in the FA Cup, in front of The Kop, against Southampton certainly endeared him to the wider fanbase who didn't know about him beforehand.
We also spoke to his Under-18s coach, Marc Bridge-Wilkinson, and he also pointed to his "infectious personalty" so that will certainly be something you will notice. He's a good lad who trains hard and everyone likes. It goes a long way in football.
What’s his story so far?
A pretty cool one. Some of your older followers will likely remember his dad, Neil, and he seems to have helped keep his son very grounded and on the right track.
Danns has been at the LFC academy since a very young age and first appeared for the U18s when he was 16, in 2021/22. He was still with the U18s at the start of last season so his rise has been quick, absolutely prolific at U18s level, and his first training with the Liverpool first team was only last January.
Without a back injury last summer I expect he would be further along in his progress, either having been loaned already - Plymouth were linked with him - or been involved more around Liverpool's U21s and first team.
What are his strengths and weaknesses? What type of player is he?
His strength, I'd say, is his instinct in front of goal. Look at how he took his chance against Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup last month, plenty of players miss those. Quite a few regular academy watchers have likened him in terms of style of play to Harry Kane.
Do you think he’ll be able to cope with the rigours of the Championship?
It's a tough league, for sure, but he's mentally a strong lad and physically capable too, good at holding the ball up. He had a tough outing in the Champions League against PSV last week but at the same time, that showed he's ready to play first-team football, it's not like he was completely unable to contribute at that elite level. It’s been reported that Liverpool were originally against sending him away on loan, clearly liking what he offers.
Do fans see him as a potential number 9 for Liverpool or is it too early to tell?
It would be nice, but it's always too early. He certainly seems to have all the attributes both as a player as a person. Like any young player, you need opportunity, whether that's someone leaving a club or an injury. Perhaps that arrives this summer if this loan period goals well.
Finally, can you give us a prediction of how you think he’ll get on in the Championship?
A tough one! I always think a loan needs a really positive start, so getting playing time and a goal early would certainly help matters! I expect he'll do well; nothing too incredible but certainly holding his own and contributing positively. If he gets the chances, both in terms of playing time and in front of goal, he'll take them.