Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk lauded Rio Ngumoha’s dream Premier League debut against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Monday. The 16-year-old sensation scored the winning goal in Liverpool’s thrilling 3-2 win against the hosts.

The English footballer scored in the 100th minute of the game to give all three points to the Reds after coming off the bench.

Van Dijk told Sky Sports: “It is a dream debut for him. It was a perfect technique. We stayed calm towards the end as well, tried to find the right solution in order to score a goal, and we did it. I’m very pleased for Rio.”

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot also showered praise on the youngster for his match-winning goal.

“It was a great goal for a 16-year-old,” Liverpool head coach Arne Slot said. “It was a big chance. He can finish really well for his age. How firm his shot was — you don’t see this often.

“He is so confident, and for him to score is not completely a coincidence, for his age, he is a really good finisher.”

Liverpool were able to put themselves in front as Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike scored, whereas the home team was reduced to 10 men after Anthony Gordon received a red card in the first-half stoppage time.

However, the hosts were able to bounce back after Bruno Guimarães and William Osula scored, both scoring from set-pieces.

Van Dijk said: “Obviously, we all know it is a difficult place to come, we all know there was a lot of oil on the fire this week to get, especially Newcastle fired up.

“For us, we are disappointed to concede from two set-pieces and that shouldn’t happen but, overall, it’s a great three points. We move on and focus on the next one.”

Liverpool will next take on Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday.