Liverpool's Rio Ngumoha backed to beat Arsenal star for place in England squad

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Joleon Lescott believes Liverpool teenager Rio Ngumoha is in the conversation with Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman to make an impact for England, with World Cup 2026 talk heating upRio Ngumoha running past Wolves defenders in a Liverpool game(Image: Getty Images)Joleon Lescott has tipped Max Dowman for an international debut and potential stardom with the national team.However, the Former England defender suggests that Liverpool's young talent, Rio Ngumoha, could potentially outpace him. At just 16, Dowman has received high praise and was recently crowned Man of the Match in Arsenal's FA Cup victory over Mansfield.Meanwhile, 17-year-old Ngumoha had a notable performance in Liverpool's 3-1 FA Cup triumph against Wolves.

I'm like, 'That's unlucky.' I'm like, 'Should he have shot, though, or should he have dribbled or should he have passed? But I don't know who he's ahead of to not go [to the World Cup]."It's extraordinary to consider that Dowman is already being discussed as a potential World Cup candidate, having made just six senior appearances for Arsenal.

That tally could have been significantly higher by now had injury not sidelined him for much of this campaign.Dowman's performance at Mansfield saw him become the youngest player to start an FA Cup match for the Gunners, as he continues to shatter records. Given the level of competition, it is increasingly unlikely that either Dowman or Ngumoha will secure their breakthrough this summer.That said, both talents appear certain for future England squads beyond this year's World Cup.