Liverpool have rewarded a striker who scored 41 goals at academy level in 2021/22 with an improved long-term contract.
Oakley Cannonier signed his first professional contract with the Reds last summer and has spent the last two seasons with the under-18s.
The last campaign was his most productive yet, with the forward finishing the season as the Academy’s top goalscorer.
His standout performance came in April, when he scored four goals in the under-18’s 10-3 thrashing of his former club Leeds, while he also netted a hat-trick away at Man United.
Cannonier’s progress has now been recognised with an improved contract ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
The 18-year-old is expected to play the majority of his football with Barry Lewtas‘ under-21s side in 2022/23, and featured in their opening day defeat to Man City last weekend.
Many remember Cannonier for the part he played in Liverpool’s memorable Champions League victory over Barcelona in 2019 when, as ballboy, he handed the ball to Trent Alexander-Arnold before his iconic corner to set up Divock Origi for the winner.
Three years on, the striker will have designs on breaking into the first team himself, having yet to feature under Jurgen Klopp.
He trained with the senior squad before the Reds’ Premier League clash against Tottenham towards the end of the last campaign, but wasn’t included in any of their pre-season preparations.
His movement and finishing ability are his standout attributes, reflected in the impressive goalscoring figures he has racked up at academy level.
Cannonier initially joined the club at under-12’s level after leaving hometown club Leeds and will now be hoping the next stage of his Liverpool career is his most fruitful yet.
