Liverpool youngster Amara Nallo has been rewarded with a call-up to England’s U20 squad, just weeks after facing a difficult start to his senior career at Anfield.
The 18-year-old defender made headlines for the wrong reasons when he became the first Liverpool player to be sent off in both of his first two appearances for the club.
His introduction to senior football lasted only 16 minutes in total — a number most strikers would love, but for Nallo it meant two red cards and plenty of frustration.
Still, the club have shown faith in his development, and now England have too. It is a fresh chance for the young center-back to turn the story around and prove why Liverpool rate him so highly.
After the Crystal Palace setback in the Carabao Cup, Nallo showed maturity beyond his age. He immediately returned to the pitch for Liverpool’s U21s, captaining the side to a 4-2 win over Middlesbrough.
It was the performance he needed — a reminder that defenders learn quickly… sometimes the hard way.
A chance to rewrite the script for Amara Nallo
Ben Futcher has included him in the England U20 squad for their upcoming clash with Japan U20 on November 14 in Doncaster. It highlights the belief that Nallo can still become an important player at international level.
Only days before that match, he will turn 19, making him one of the youngest defenders involved. Brentford’s Benjamin Arthur and Chelsea’s Harrison Murray-Campbell are the only other specialist center-backs available in the group, showing how trusted Nallo already is.
The international break has arrived again — yes, just as Liverpool were building momentum — but for Nallo, this pause might be perfectly timed.
It gives him a clean slate and the chance to swap the red of Liverpool for the red of England, hopefully without seeing another red from the referee.
England U20s will also hold a training camp during the week as preparations continue for future competitions. Meanwhile, fellow Liverpool teenagers Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha will stay with the U19s for their Euro qualifiers in Lithuania.
For Nallo, this call-up sends a clear message: talent shines brighter than any early mistake. Reds fans will hope he returns from England duty with confidence restored — and cards kept firmly in the referee’s pocket.