Son of EFL legend who played alongside Gerrard and Owen signs professional deal with Liverpool

The son of former Liverpool, West Brom and Cardiff midfielder Jason Koumas has signed his first professional contract with the Reds.

Lewis Koumas, 17, has already followed in the footsteps of his father, who joined the Liverpool academy at the age of nine and stayed there until 18, when he moved to Tranmere.

The Welshman played alongside the likes of Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen, but opted not to sign Youth Training Scheme forms. Journalist Leon Barton once claimed his cousin had told him Koumas had more ability than Gerrard.

He went on to forge a superb career in the Football League as a creative and goalscoring midfielder, who was also known for his incredible set piece ability. He moved to West Brom for over £2 million in 2002 after four years at Tranmere.

Koumas made 123 appearances for the Baggies in both the Premier League and the First Division/Championship, scoring 23 goals.

During that time, he netted on 12 occasions in 44 Championship appearances for Cardiff during a loan spell in 2005/06, forming a strong midfield partnership with future Wales international Joe Ledley.

Koumas retired in 2011 following a spell at Wigan and a second loan stint at the Bluebirds, before making a comeback to football in 2013 with another two years at Tranmere.

He also received 34 caps for Wales during his career, scoring 10 goals.

Now, his son has signed professional terms at the club his father represented at youth level.

Koumas signs first Liverpool professional contract

Liverpool have announced via their official website that Lewis Koumas has put pen to paper on a pro contract with the Reds after a spell with the U18 squad this season.

In 16 games this season, the talented midfielder, who converted to a striker this term, has netted 11 goals and provided four assists. He has also been called up to the U21 squad on numerous occasions.

He has played alongside the likes of Ben Doak, who has appeared in several Reds senior matchday squads this term.

Koumas himself is yet to be called up to senior action yet, but the contract shows that Liverpool chiefs have great faith in the youngster, and he will now be pushing hard to reach the next level.