There is not a shadow of a doubt that the win against Bologna on Sunday was something spectacular. The Amaranto overcame their direct relegation rivals, and finally they’re above the relegation zone. Despite their undisputed spirit, Domenico Di Carlo and the board have to be thanked. The young players recruited in the summer injected a great deal of grit and pace into the team.
Such a crucial time of the season requires players to up their game. In spite of their obvious inexperience, the young players have been a beacon of light in a rather stop-start season. Let’s not forget that Livorno only spent £4 million on transfers. To put that into perspective, Sassuolo spent a staggering £20 million. Even though all the young players were brought in on loan from Inter, there is no doubt that they have evolved into key players. What did they add?
Francesco Bardi
The 22-year-old goalkeeper has been too important for Livorno this season. To have a decent young player is one thing, but to have a goalkeeper tipped for greatness is another. Bardi, who was Italy’s starting goalkeeper in the 2013 U-21 European Championship is being seriously considered to succeed Gianluigi Buffon as the Nazionale’s number one goalkeeper. Although Bardi has been caught at fault for some of the goals he’s conceded, he’s never been short of confidence. The acquisition of such a talented young goalkeeper has provided much needed stability between the sticks. An astute signing on all fronts.
Alfred Duncan
The Ghanian midfielder has been ever-present this season. Duncan’s barging runs from midfield and his defensive work rate justify why he’s been selected under both Di Carlo and Davide Nicola. The defensive midfielder, also on loan from Inter, has made 0 defensive errors this season which further proves that he can be counted on.
Ibrahima Mbaye
Another Ghanian who has proven his worth in the Amaranto set-up is 19-year-old Ibrahima Mbaye. The teenager, who has predominantly featured on the wings has been given tonnes of freedom to roam on the flanks. This freedom has proved its worth as the Ghanian has set up one goal and scored another two in the past three games. Mbaye has started in 20 games this season, which is definitely a stat to praise.
Marco Benassi
Another Inter loanee, Benassi has been nothing short of a revelation. The 19-year-old midfielder arrived on loan in January and has appeared in 12 games since, scoring twice and setting up four goals. In the previous game against Bologna, Benassi was instrumental in the middle of the park. Benassi is a definite one for the future.
These young players have been performing really well this season, the blend between young and old players has helped in creating balance in a side that has relied solely on loan deals. The Amaranto are now out of the relegation zone, and it’s only fair to pay tribute to the younsters’ resilience this season. On Sunday against Torino, they’ll once again take foot and take part in the battle for survival.
