Calvin Ramsay, the 20-year-old right-back on loan at Preston, has battled fitness and health issues since joining the Championship side on a one-year deal last summer.
Despite returning to full fitness, Ramsay finds himself sidelined and seemingly out of favor with manager Ryan Lowe.
Injury Struggles and COVID-19 Setback
Ramsay’s journey has been marred by a 13-month absence from senior starts due to persistent fitness challenges. His most recent setback was testing positive for COVID-19, but he has since recovered and declared available for Preston.
Managerial Decision
Despite being fit, Ramsay has failed to make the matchday squads for the last four games. Manager Ryan Lowe, while acknowledging Ramsay’s readiness, stated that the right-back is “not ready” as per squad requirements.
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Quotes from Manager Lowe
Lowe emphasized the importance of readiness for all players, including those not actively playing. Ramsay’s absence from recent squads was attributed to squad decisions and the need for preparedness.
“[Calvin] Ramsay is fit and available. He had Covid, so was a little bit out [for Watford] and the squad was the squad.
We kept the squad we felt was probably needed and he just didn’t make the squad.”
Lowe explained earlier this month, as quoted by the Lancashire Post:
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“They’ve just got to make sure they are all ready, Calvin included. People who haven’t been playing, their voices and opinions are just as important as the ones who have been.”
Comparable Loan Struggles
Ramsay’s situation echoes the struggles of other loaned players, such as Nat Phillips and Fabio Carvalho, who have faced challenges in securing playing time at Celtic and RB Leipzig, respectively.
Liverpool’s Concerns for Calvin Ramsay
As a Liverpool loanee, Ramsay’s limited playing time raises concerns for Jurgen Klopp’s side. With Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Bradley as current right-back options, Ramsay’s loan spell was expected to provide valuable experience, especially with Alexander-Arnold occasionally playing in midfield.
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Playing Style and Potential Impact
Ramsay’s versatility is highlighted by his composure on the ball, ability to play in tight areas, and adeptness at lofting crosses from his weaker foot. His early central midfield experience has showcased a playing style reminiscent of players like Kieran Tierney.
Calvin Ramsay’s loan spell at Preston has been a rollercoaster of fitness challenges and managerial decisions. The coming months will reveal whether he can carve a place in the squad, and Liverpool will closely monitor his development, hoping for a successful loan stint that adds valuable experience to his budding career.
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