David James told Premier League Productions on Sunday that Liverpool academy product, Rhian Brewster, ‘may have already peaked’ amid his struggles at Sheffield United.
The 21-year-old, who made a big-money move to Bramall Lane from Liverpool last summer, is yet to register his first goal for the club.
It hasn’t helped him that the Blades are heading straight back to the Championship after enduring one of the worst seasons in Premier League history.
Former England goalkeeper, James, shared that Brewster’s current situation isn’t his fault.
“Not surprised (On Brewster not yet scoring),” said James. “When I say ‘not surprised’ I don’t say about his ability or his talent.
“Players peak at any given age. Kids at ten years old or some players might peak at 38-years-old.
“It’s not to say that Rhian Brewster will become the superstar striker because he may have already had peaked.
“But then, in his defence, he has joined a side which are poor. 18 goals all season. Arguably, if you play him more then he has more chance to score. But the biggest thing about it they cannot create freely. This isn’t a side that creates loads of chances. It’s not his fault.”
Another player that was on Liverpool’s books – Dominic Solanke, the ex-Chelsea academy product – faced a similar situation to Brewster.
He moved to Bournemouth for big money, struggled, but they kept faith with the player and he is now thriving in the Championship.
The key thing is that Brewster has shown that he can do the business in England’s second-tier – after he scored goals at Swansea – so, it’s a case of preparing him mentally for next season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
