Liverpool Stars React As Talented Midfielder Announces Departure

Ben Woodburn, who had been with Liverpool since the age of 7, has left the club to join Preston North End.

Woodburn is Liverpool’s youngest ever goal scorer. He broke the record previously held by Michael Owen bagging one against Leeds United aged just 17.

However, since bursting onto the scene, he has struggled with the hefty demands placed upon Liverpool players, and has been loaned out on a series of occasions.

The Welsh international has played for the likes of Sheffield United, Blackpool, Oxford United, and Hearts on his various temporary ventures.

Now though, he leaves Liverpool permanently, dashing a childhood dream for the youngster.

The reaction of his Liverpool teammates underneath his Instagram post revealing the exit, is indicative of what a popular figure he was at Anfield.

Jordan Henderson and Nat Phillips have wished the 22-year-old "All the best" at his new club.

Meanwhile, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who came through the Liverpool academy in the year above Woodburn, reflected on "what a journey" the pair had been through together.

Woodburn will be disappointed to leave his boyhood club, but also content in the fact that he has etched himself in club history by becoming Liverpool’s youngest ever goal scorer.

Reflecting on his time at Liverpool, Woodburn thanked them “for everything” after “16 years at this amazing club.”

Now at Preston North End, Woodburn will be hoping to prove himself to Wales manager Rob Page.

Midfield roles in the Wales national team are still very much up for grabs and a strong first half of the Championship season could help Woodburn’s case considerably.

As for further departures at Anfield, it’d appear Woodburn’s fellow academy graduates Nat Phillips and Neco Williams will also be leaving Liverpool.

Phillips could leave Liverpool on loan with a potential return to Bournemouth on the cards for the Englishman, while Neco Williams £15 million switch to Nottingham Forest is nearing completion.

Williams, like Woodburn, will be hoping to be on the Welsh plane to Qatar in November.