Former Liverpool winger Sheyi Ojo has opened up about the devastating moment an injury shattered his hopes of securing a place in Jürgen Klopp’s first team.
Once regarded as one of the brightest young talents in English football, Ojo’s journey at Liverpool was derailed by a back injury in 2016, just as he was on the cusp of a potential breakthrough.
A promising start
Ojo’s footballing journey began with a bang when Liverpool signed him from MK Dons in 2011 for £2 million, making him the most expensive 14-year-old in English football at the time. The Reds faced stiff competition from several top clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and even European giants like Barcelona and Real Madrid.
The high-profile transfer immediately placed great expectations on Ojo, who quickly showcased his potential. By the age of 15, he was training with Liverpool’s first team, and in just his second senior appearance, he scored, fueling hopes of a glittering future.
The heartbreaking setback
However, in 2016, Ojo’s journey took a tragic turn. A back injury during preseason left him sidelined for four months. Reflecting on that period, Ojo told The Athletic, “It was heartbreaking because I knew that was my chance to really push on. I was so upset because I understood the significance of that moment.”
Though he eventually recovered and returned to action, he only made two more appearances for Klopp’s side—both in an FA Cup tie against Plymouth Argyle that required a replay. The injury marked a turning point in his career, forcing Ojo onto a path of multiple loan spells before his eventual release from Liverpool in 2022.
Life after Liverpool
Since leaving Anfield, Ojo has embarked on a footballing journey across Europe. Now 27, he plays for Slovenian club NK Maribor, following a season-long loan in Belgium with KV Kortrijk. Despite the setbacks, Ojo remains determined to prove his worth, saying, “I still don’t think I’ve fully shown how good I really am.”
Ojo has made 263 senior appearances across ten different clubs, scoring 22 goals and providing 29 assists. Reflecting on his early experiences at Liverpool, he spoke fondly of the time he spent training with the first team. “I remember my first session with the first team when I was 15,” he recalled. “The intensity of the passing, the movement—every little detail mattered at that level. It was eye-opening, and it helped me grow as a player.”
Memories of playing under Klopp
Despite the challenges, Ojo cherishes the memories of playing under Klopp. “Everything feels easier when you’re surrounded by the best players,” he said. “I was really enjoying my football then.” These fond memories make the pain of his 2016 injury even more poignant, as it robbed him of the chance to truly establish himself at Liverpool.
A lesson for aspiring stars
Ojo’s story serves as a cautionary tale for young players coming through Liverpool’s academy. While talent and potential are crucial, timing and luck play a significant role in a footballer’s career. His experience underscores how fragile a promising career can be when injuries strike at critical moments.
Looking ahead
Now with Maribor, Ojo continues to work toward realizing the potential that made him such a sought-after prospect as a teenager. Though his career hasn’t followed the trajectory many envisioned when he joined Liverpool, he remains optimistic and determined to leave his mark on the game. “I’m still here, and I’m still fighting,” he said.
Ojo’s journey is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, as well as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football careers. While the chapter at Liverpool may have closed, his story is far from over, and he remains committed to proving his quality on the pitch.
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