Davis: January Move Would be Best Option for This Liverpool Forward | OneFootball

Is Jayden Danns Ready for More First-Team Minutes or a Loan Move? Dave Davis Weighs In

Liverpool’s Academy has produced some exciting talents in recent years, and Jayden Danns is quickly emerging as one to watch. However, despite his promising performances, Dave Davis believes the 18-year-old striker would benefit more from a loan move rather than immediate first-team integration. Speaking on Anfield Index’s post-press conference podcast, Davis discussed Danns’ impact against Accrington Stanley and why a temporary move away from Anfield might be the best path for his development.

Danns’ Standout Display Against Accrington Stanley

Danns played a key role in Liverpool’s FA Cup victory over Accrington Stanley, showcasing his sharp instincts and composure in front of goal. Davis was quick to praise the youngster’s finishing ability:

“Jaden Danns knows where the goal is, doesn’t he? He just seems to have an instinct, a composure, almost a swagger in the best possible way at the right time.”

Danns’ confidence on the ball and ability to find space in the box was evident, adding to the growing excitement around his potential. His goal against Accrington was another example of his natural finishing ability, and as Davis pointed out, this wasn’t the first time the young forward had made an impression:

“That’s three senior goals already, isn’t it? Two against Southampton, one against Accrington. I can see people already clamouring for this kid, saying he’s got to get more first-team minutes.”

However, while the enthusiasm surrounding Danns is understandable, Davis believes it is important to manage expectations.

Photo: IMAGO

Why a Loan Move is the Best Next Step

Despite Danns’ impressive cameos, Davis was clear in his assessment that the best course of action would be a loan spell in the Championship or another competitive league. He acknowledged the raw talent but stressed the importance of playing regular football:

“There’s two things to this for me. Number one, the sample size is minute. Yes, first-team football is important, but I think it’s somewhere like a Championship club where he can play more men’s football.”

For all his potential, Danns remains behind several established senior forwards in Liverpool’s pecking order. Davis highlighted this, explaining that while fans may want to see him feature more, the reality is that there are too many attacking options ahead of him:

“There are six senior forwards in front of him, and I know people are saying he’s a better option than Núñez, but I don’t think it’s there for him at the moment.”

Photo: IMAGO

A loan move would allow Danns to develop without the pressure of competing for a spot in one of the most demanding squads in world football. Davis added that young players need opportunities to make mistakes and learn from them—something that would be difficult if he remains on the fringes of Liverpool’s first team:

“Let him go somewhere where he can make a few mistakes as well, learn his trade as they say.”

Looking at the Bigger Picture for Liverpool’s Young Talents

Danns isn’t the only young player knocking on the door for more minutes, and Liverpool’s recent success in integrating Academy products has shown that the club is willing to give opportunities when the time is right. Arne Slot has already demonstrated his ability to manage squad rotation effectively, ensuring that young talents get exposure while still prioritising results.

Davis believes that Danns’ future at Liverpool is bright but that patience is key:

“Jaden Danns is a real talent, but at this moment, a loan move makes the most sense. There’s absolutely nothing he’s going to get more from under-21 football rather than fitness—he’s above that level now.”

Liverpool’s history is filled with players who benefited from loan spells before making a real impact at Anfield. If Danns follows that path, he could return with the experience and confidence needed to compete for a place in the first team.

Final Verdict: Long-Term Thinking Over Short-Term Excitement

While it’s tempting to throw young talents straight into the deep end, Davis’ argument for a loan move is based on ensuring Danns develops in the right way. His recent performances have shown plenty of promise, but regular first-team football—away from the pressure of Anfield—could be the key to unlocking his full potential.

Liverpool fans may have to wait a little longer to see Danns regularly featuring for the first team, but if managed correctly, his future remains an exciting one.