After a challenging six months away from the game and limited appearances over the past two seasons, Liverpool striker Oakley Cannonier is making strides towards full fitness. Cannonier, who made a name for himself as a prolific scorer with the Liverpool U18s, has faced a series of injuries since moving up to the U21s.
In the 2021/22 season, Cannonier scored an impressive 31 goals in 28 games for the U18s. However, injuries have restricted him to just three goals in 18 games since then. His last competitive outing was in January, where he started in a 3-1 defeat to Athletic Club B but was substituted at half-time, subsequently missing the rest of the season.
Recently, Cannonier returned to action in a pre-season friendly as Liverpool U21s took on Chorley. The 20-year-old featured in the starting lineup alongside Tom Hill and James Norris, playing the first half of a 2-0 victory before being replaced by Ranel Young in a planned substitution. According to the Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle, medical staff are cautious not to push him too hard during his recovery.
Despite being one of the older members of the U21 squad at 20, Cannonier is expected to remain with the U21s as he works on regaining his fitness and sharpness. This season will be crucial for him as he aims to transition into senior football.
U21s coach Barry Lewtas has several strong attacking options, though players like Ben Doak, Kaide Gordon, and Jayden Danns are unlikely to feature regularly at the academy level due to potential loan moves. Additionally, Lewis Koumas and Harvey Blair are currently with the first team on their pre-season tour, with Liverpool likely seeking senior football opportunities for them this summer.
This situation leaves Cannonier as a potential experienced leader among a youthful group that includes Kieran Morrison (17), Trent Kone-Doherty (18), Keyrol Figueroa (17), and Ranel Young (18). After demonstrating his fitness, there might be a possibility of a loan move for Cannonier in January, depending on his progress and the needs of the squad.
For now, the key takeaway is Cannonier’s return to the pitch, giving him the opportunity to make up for lost time and reestablish himself as a promising talent.
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