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Awoniyi
played for Nigeria at the Under-17 World Cup in 2013. Getty Images
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Nigerian teenager Taiwo
Awoniyi has all the attributes needed to be a success at Liverpool, says former
Nigeria international Seyi Olofinjana. Liverpool signed the striker, 18, on Monday, and
sent him out on loan to German second tier side FSV Frankfurt.
Awoniyi
joined Liverpool from the Imperial Academy in Nigeria, which is run by
Olofinjana.
"Taiwo
is a goal poacher who puts the team before himself. He has all you need to
succeed," he told BBC Sport.
The
Under-23 international chose Liverpool ahead of French side Monaco and
Portugal's Porto.
BBC Sport report continues:
Olofinjana,
who played for Wolverhampton Wanderers, Stoke City, Hull City and Cardiff City
between 2004 and 2013, knows English football well and believes Awoniyi has
chosen the right path for his future.
"It's
not because Liverpool is a big club but the chat we had with them with regards
how they develop young players as well as their plan for Taiwo's steady
progress swayed us," Olofinjana said.
"We
received interesting offers from other clubs but we concluded that Liverpool
was the perfect club for his career.
"Apart
from being a good player with great potential, his flair for learning and
desire to improve as a player has always been commendable."
Awoniyi
played for his country at the Under-17 World Cup in 2013, scoring four goals as
Nigeria won the tournament. He also played at this year's Under-20 World Cup in
New Zealand, netting twice.
He
is undoubtedly a highly promising prospect and matches his raw talent with the
ambition to fulfil his potential at what he called "the biggest club in
the world".
"I'm
privileged to be here," the youngster told Liverpool's website after his
arrival. "I have lots of friends in England so I believe I can cope with
switching over. I see myself being a good player here.
"My
aim on loan is to try to develop myself very well so that when I come back to
Liverpool, I'll be able to add value to the team.
"I'm a striker and I
love scoring goals. I love helping my team to victory. I assist a lot and I
love scoring goals for my team."
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