Lewis Koumas Reveals Liverpool Star Who Inspired His Breakthrough Display
Lewis Koumas has given Liverpool supporters another reason to keep a close eye on his development after producing an impressive performance against Tottenham at Anfield.
The young forward was rewarded with his first senior Player of the Match award, but perhaps the most interesting part of his night came after the final whistle when he revealed the Liverpool star who has had the biggest influence on his game.
When asked which player he had learned the most from, Koumas immediately named Luis Díaz.
“Yeah, I think I’d definitely say Lucho [Luis Díaz]. I used to love him. I think I’ve said in an interview before. He was my favourite player when he was here. So I was always watching, trying to adapt bits of his into my game.”
Koumas appeared to demonstrate exactly what he meant during the match. From the opening stages, the forward played with enormous intensity, constantly pressing Tottenham’s defenders and looking to attack them whenever an opportunity presented itself.
His work rate was particularly noticeable. Koumas repeatedly chased down opponents, helped Liverpool win possession in advanced areas and remained willing to track back when his team lost the ball.
That all-round contribution ultimately earned him the Player of the Match award. His reaction when Cody Gakpo presented him with the trophy was equally memorable, with the youngster initially appearing surprised before breaking into a huge smile.
It marked the first time Koumas had received the award at senior level.
Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola had made ten changes from the team that featured at the weekend, giving several younger players the opportunity to make an impression. Koumas was trusted to lead the attack and took his opportunity, while Trey Nyoni, James McConnell and Rio Ngumoha also produced encouraging performances.
Liverpool started strongly and eventually found the breakthrough in the 21st minute when Alexis Mac Allister finished off a well-worked move.
The hosts continued to control much of the contest, and Cody Gakpo doubled their advantage nine minutes into the second half.
Tottenham did manage to make things uncomfortable when Conor Gallagher pulled a goal back in the 69th minute, giving the visitors hope of forcing their way back into the tie.
However, Liverpool ultimately put the result beyond doubt in stoppage time. Dominik Szoboszlai produced a spectacular long-range effort that flew into the top corner, sealing a 3-1 victory for the Reds.
The win sent Liverpool into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, but for Koumas, the evening represented much more than simply progression in the competition.
His performance offered a glimpse of how studying Díaz’s movement, aggression and direct style has influenced his own approach. At the same time, he showed the intensity and determination required to succeed at senior level.
For Liverpool, the emergence of young players capable of stepping into the first team and making an immediate impact will be particularly encouraging.
And while Koumas may have spent years watching Díaz and trying to take elements of his game, the youngster is now beginning to create a style and reputation of his own.
