Pecsi Anchors Defence in Full 90-Minute DisplayLiverpool Under-21s continued their pre-season preparations with a 0-0 draw against Hull City’s youth side on Saturday. While the fixture ended without...
Pecsi Anchors Defence in Full 90-Minute Display
Liverpool Under-21s continued their pre-season preparations with a 0-0 draw against Hull City’s youth side on Saturday. While the fixture ended without goals, it provided a valuable platform for two summer arrivals to make their mark, most notably Hungarian goalkeeper Armin Pecsi, who featured for the full 90 minutes at the AXA Training Centre.
Pecsi, signed from Puskas Akademia earlier this summer, had already made an impression within Arne Slot’s first-team squad during their tour of Asia, though he did not feature in the matches against AC Milan or Yokohama F. Marinos. The young keeper was previously involved in the Reds’ 5-0 victory over Stoke City, continuing to build rhythm and adapt to the club’s playing style.
His presence between the sticks on Saturday stood out, with a composed performance that showcased his distribution and command of the penalty area—key attributes Liverpool will be monitoring as he settles into the underage system. While he’s been signed primarily for the Under-21s, his involvement with the senior squad signals the club’s long-term interest in his development.
Wright Debuts Following Salford Switch
The draw also marked the debut of Will Wright, a recent addition from Salford City. The 17-year-old forward completed his move earlier this week and was quickly integrated into Rob Page’s squad. Despite interest from Arsenal, Wright opted for a move that keeps him in the north-west—a decision Liverpool will hope proves fruitful in the coming seasons.
Wright’s introduction represents a strategic investment in attacking talent at youth level. His first outing came amid wholesale changes in the second half, with Page rotating all 10 outfield players after the hour mark. While his time on the pitch was limited, his movement and link-up play offered glimpses of potential that supporters will want to see develop further.
Familiar Faces Return as Page Builds New Campaign
Several recognisable names featured in Saturday’s friendly, including Calvin Ramsay and Lewis Koumas in the starting eleven. Amara Nallo, Kieran Morrison and Kaide Gordon were all introduced from the bench, as Liverpool continue to manage game time ahead of the yet-to-be-confirmed Premier League 2 schedule.
The Under-21s endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign, finishing 16th in a 26-team league. However, the early signs of this pre-season—victories over Celtic and Lens, and draws with Wigan Athletic and now Hull—suggest a more stable platform is being established under the guidance of Rob Page.
Page Reflects on Youth Project Vision
Speaking to Liverpool’s club media, Page described his return to youth development at Liverpool as a “very exciting option,” underlining the appeal of working at a club where the integration of youth into the senior environment remains a top priority.
“They’ve had difficult moments over the years at youth level and more recently too,” said Page. “But the club’s reaction—the connection between players, supporters and staff—has been incredible. This is a very special club.”
Page’s arrival and the signings of Pecsi and Wright are part of a wider reshaping of the development setup, designed to elevate Liverpool’s academy output. Whether that results in future first-team appearances or successful careers elsewhere, the intent is clear: identify, develop, and give opportunity.
Category: General Sports
