Liverpool will not be loaning Ben Woodburn to Sunderland.
Woodburn is just 18-years-old and burst onto the scene in 2016 when he lit up pre-season for the Reds.
He followed that up by scoring on his debut in the EFL Cup, but has struggled for opportunities since.
The Wales international has played just 45 minutes this season, again in the League Cup, and a loan move could have been ideal for his progress.
Woodburn is able to play as a striker and behind the frontman, and fans have been suggesting the possibility that manager Jurgen Klopp is keen to groom him as a replacement for Philippe Coutinho, who was sold to Barcelona.
Liverpool are also expected to let striker Daniel Sturridge leave this January, opening up spots in attack.
The decision has split fans, who are not convinced Woodburn will get the opportunities, having barely had a look in this season.
If he is not given game time then the decision to keep him around will have been a waste, but if he is handed a chance then it is an exciting development for the player and fans, who would love to see the academy talent blossom into a first team star.
Here is a look at how Liverpool fans reacted on Twitter to the decision…
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