Norwegian prodigy Martin Odegaard fulfilled one of his wishes on Thursday in his short footballing career, after he had a run-out at Liverpool’s training ground, as a part of his visit to his ‘dream club’, as transfer to Anfield seems increasingly likely.
The Telegraph reported yesterday that young Odegaard, who became the youngest player to feature in a European Championship qualifier, was spotted dining in the city with Liverpool player Philippe Coutinho.
The Norway international, who plays for Stromsgodset, is one of Europe’s hottest properties, and have made similar trips to Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid and Manchester United as well.
According to The Telegraph, Odegaard, (often compared with Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi) who turns 16 later this month, has trained with Liverpool squad yesterday, as he weighs up his next move. He will be able to sign a professional contract when he turns 16 on Dec 17 and is a self-confessed Liverpool fan, like his father, who accompanied him to Liverpool city.
He said recently in an interview to Bild as quoted by Telegraph:
“Liverpool have always been my dream club. But I will not let this affect my decision when I choose a new club. It’s all about finding the team that is best for me and for my development. That is not necessarily Liverpool.
I haven’t really thought about my future yet. I will end the season here and then visit a number of clubs. I have not made a final decision yet, though. Of course, it’s flattering when you hear that big clubs are after you, but I don’t think about it too often.”
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Brendan Rodgers, the Liverpool manager, has shown great desire while working with young footballers. In his first season at the club, he gave opportunities to several youngsters like Suso and Raheem Sterling, with the later now being considered one of the best in the world at his age. Furthermore, youngsters like Andre Wisdom, Jon Flanagan and Jordan Rossiter have all featured for the first team, in various capacity. Odegaard’s family could see that a sign of encouragement while choosing the players’ future destination.
Liverpool are a type of club where young talents have always been given extra emphasis, if that player is good enough. The likes of Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen, and now Sterling are burning examples to the club’s old adage – ‘if you are good enough, you’re old enough.”
Also, should Liverpool manager captures him, out of so many top European heavyweights, it would also reflect a very commendable job done by the Reds manager.
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