A host of Liverpool loanees were in action last weekend, with Rhys Williams leading the way after showing well in his Swansea debut
While Liverpool’s senior team was busy dispatching Leeds this weekend, there were a gaggle of Liverpool loanees on display with their host clubs. The defensive contingent in particular had a good weekend of games.
Rhys Williams made his debut for Swansea. The young center back was deployed in a group of three center backs as the Swans hosted Hull City. He had the highest pass completion rate on his team at almost 97% for his 91 passes, including completing 3 of 4 long balls. Williams garnered praise from Russell Martin, the Swansea manager.
“Rhys Williams settled in brilliantly, he played like he had been here for a long time,” said Martin.
The fact that Williams has immediately stepped into a starting role is a great sign for the youngster. After being drafted into starting duty for Liverpool last season, and faring relatively well, this will be a fantastic opportunity to continue his progress in the Championship. Swansea will be expecting to compete for promotion, but have gotten off to a terrible start, sitting in 21st place out of 24 teams.
Elsewhere in the division, Sepp van den Berg and Preston continued their unbeaten run. The Dutch defender has been a mainstay as a right wing back, putting in another 90 minute shift at the position as Preston took on Bristol City. Van den Berg led his team with 5 tackles, and also made 6 clearances in a defensive struggle. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, leaving Preston in 13th place.
A third Liverpool player in action in the Championship was Sheyi Ojo. The winger, on loan with Millwall, struggled in his debut. He got the start and played 80 minutes, but only managed 1 shot and 10 passes for the game. His side drew 1-1 with West Brom.
Moving to some of the other leagues, Ben Woodburn put in a 71 minute shift for Hearts in Scotland. He led his team with 4 key passes and also complete 3 key passes, but he and his team couldn’t find a way through against Hibernian as they drew 0-0. Hearts have started the season well, sitting in third place, just one point off the top of the table.
Over in Ireland, Vitezslav Jaros gave up two goals as his St. Patrick Athletic side lost to Sligo Rovers. Another keeper in action was Jakub Ojrzynski as his Welsh side Caernarfon Town defeated Cefn Druids. It was the 18 year old’s first shutout at the senior level.
