By Priya Kaur
Talking all things academy, on your latest expert insight, we interviewed Sky Sports EFL Editor, Simeon Gholam, who provided insight into the loan spells of Ben Doak and Kadie Gordon.
Both young players are spending time away from Liverpool, seeking development and valuable playing time in the EFL Championship.
Ben Doak is on loan at Middlesbrough, playing under manager Micheal Carrick. Simeon noted that Carrick has been rebuilding the club, emphasising an attacking style of play, which aligns well with Doak’s attributes.
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He remarked, “Carrick needed time to rebuild, and Middlesborough is the type of club that will help you do that.”
Doak has made a positive impression at the club. Gholam highlighted that “he’s been bright in trying to work his way in and will have to get used to Carrick’s methods and the first-team squad.”
His explosive pace and relentless energy make him a dynamic presence on the pitch. However, Simeon pointed out that while he is a player “who gets you out of your seat”, he still needs to improve his consistency and end product.
Nevertheless, Doak’s early promise has already won over the fanbase, showing that he has the potential to make a significant impact as he continues to adapt.
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As for Kadie Gordon, he is spending his time on loan at Norwich City, a club that is in the process of rebuilding and looking to establish themselves in the Championship.
Simeon described Norwich as having a squad with “huge potential” and a positive trajectory as they continue their development, although he raised some concerns about Gordon’s situation within the team.
Simeon pointed out potential challenges for Gordon in terms of securing regular playing time and observed, “My concern with Kadie Gordon is that he may be out of the squad or not get a confirmed place.”
With several talented players competing for spots in forward positions, earning consistent minutes could be a challenge and Simeon emphasised “when you are 20, you do need to be playing week in and week out.”
Simeon also suggested that a loan move to a lower-tier side, such as League One, might have provided more consistent playing opportunities for Gordon, just like the successful loan spell of Conor Bradley at Bolton.
Despite the competition, he believes that Liverpool will closely monitor Gordon’s progress, given their high expectations for his future.”
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Liverpool have made smart use of the loan system in recent years and both Gordon and Doak will hope to be the latest benefactors of spells away from Merseyside in order to hone and develop their skills.
Having both made first-team impacts at Anfield, strong seasons could well see them in and around Arne Slot’s plans moving forwards as it’s clear the ability is certainly there.
