Liverpool manager Arne Slot has handed a major boost to teenage defender Wellity Lucky, who joined the first team in training on Monday ahead of the UEFA Champions League showdown with Real Madrid.
The 19-year-old centre-back, who holds eligibility to represent Nigeria, England, or Spain, was spotted training with senior players at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre. Reports from the Liverpool Echo confirmed his inclusion in the session as the team fine-tuned preparations for Tuesday’s highly anticipated fixture.
Lucky’s steady rise through the ranks has drawn attention in recent months. He made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup clash against Crystal Palace, coming off the bench for the final twenty-three minutes a performance many insiders described as “assured and composed.”
Although not officially listed in Liverpool’s Champions League squad, Lucky remains eligible as an Under-21 player, having been registered with the club for more than five years. That rule leaves open the possibility of his inclusion should the coaching staff decide to spring a surprise.
A source close to the club told Observers Times that the young defender has impressed the technical crew with his discipline and ball control.
“He has adapted quickly to first-team intensity,” the source said. “Even if he doesn’t make the matchday squad, the experience of training at that level will shape his confidence and readiness for future opportunities.”
Lucky has featured eleven times across Liverpool’s age-grade and senior competitions this season, including his first senior appearance against Crystal Palace last week.
Meanwhile, promising forward Rio Ngumoha also joined Monday’s training session and is expected to make the bench when Liverpool face Real Madrid at Anfield.
