Aberdeen’s Calvin Ramsay has joined Liverpool, after a deal has been agreed between the clubs. The deal sees Ramsay become the Scottish club’s record sale. Ramsay is a Scottish U-21 international, who came through Aberdeen’s academy, and starred at right-back for his hometown club. With many Liverpool fans having likely never seen Ramsay play before, they’ll be wondering what kind of player the young Scot is.
What will Calvin Ramsay bring to Liverpool?
First things first, it seems obvious to say, but Ramsay will be arriving at Anfield as a squad player, rather than a regular starter. Trent Alexander-Arnold is one of Liverpool’s most important players, and is unlikely to be dislodged from the side anytime soon.
Betting exchange users will know that Alexander-Arnold’s unique profile is key for Liverpool, and his presence massively increases their chances of success. It’s made him a difficult player for Liverpool to find backup for, with Joe Gomez often filling in in that position over the years.
As an attacking full-back, Ramsay should be a more natural option in that position. The Scot likes to get forward from the right side of defence, and he enjoys being on the ball. Ramsay is comfortable with either foot and his proactive, attacking approach is fun to watch.
While Alexander-Arnold’s passing range from that position isn’t something that Ramsay will likely be able to replicate, he should be able to provide an attacking thrust from the right side of defence.
Passing Threat
The youngster is a good crosser and, while not to the level of Alexander-Arnold, his creative passing is a real threat to opposing teams. He strikes the ball well with both feet, meaning he’s able to create from a variety of angles and positions to deliver the ball from.
To emphasise this, he’s a regular set piece taker for Aberdeen, trusted in most of such situations with his deliveries. He’s also a goal threat, and he scored his first Aberdeen goal against Dundee in February by driving inside and firing home on his left foot from the edge of the area.
Ramsay will likely be compared to his compatriot, Nathan Patterson, who moved from Rangers to Everton in January. Patterson is a couple of years older, and the Everton man’s more advanced physical development is likely to show, but that shouldn’t be seen as a mark against Ramsay, who offers a lot of potential.
Positioning
Still relatively raw, the full-back isn’t without his flaws. As might be expected, the 18-year-old will likely struggle with the physicality of Premier League football when he arrives. The combination of strength, endurance, and speed that ensures the league is played at such an entertaining pace will no doubt take some adjusting to for the young defender.
Furthermore, Ramsay’s positioning and strength in the air may both need some work. This area of weakness is exposed when a cross comes in from the opposite flank, with the young Scot often failing to get back and provide cover at the far post.
All that being said, the Liverpool coaching staff will be confident that they can work on Ramsay’s weaknesses, and build on his strengths. The move certainly looks a smart one at this stage. Liverpool’s recruitment strategy involves buying low and selling high whenever possible, and Ramsay is almost certain to fit into that.
Even if he doesn’t go on to become a Liverpool player in the long term, he’s likely to become a Premier League quality player, and if Liverpool do decide to move him on, they’re likely to get a good price for him. In the meantime, they finally have a backup for Alexander-Arnold who can try and replicate the Englishman’s ability to affect the game.