Kieran Morrison is proud to have scored his first senior goal for Liverpool in the Reds’ 4-2 pre-season victory over Sunderland.
The young attacker found the net during Liverpool’s tour of the United States, giving new head coach Andoni Iraola another encouraging display as preparations continue for the 2026-27 season.
Morrison admitted the goal was a special moment, particularly as he looks to impress under Liverpool’s new manager.
“It feels very good,” Morrison said. “Especially under the new manager, getting the first goal in pre-season. I’m proud.”
The goal came after a clever assist from Harvey Elliott, with Morrison explaining that the move happened naturally after countless hours on the training ground.
“I didn’t really think about it,” he said. “It was just instinct. Harvey is a top player. When he’s in the number 10 position, sometimes I move inside and he moves out. It’s a good combination.”
Morrison believes Iraola has already made a big impact since arriving at Anfield, saying the Spaniard has introduced fresh ideas that have challenged the squad.
“It’s a new philosophy,” Morrison said. “What he’s done before has obviously worked. He’s one of the best managers in the league and he’s teaching me things I’ve never heard before. It’s a credit to Andoni.”
The youngster is taking his opportunity one step at a time after being included on Liverpool’s pre-season tour.
“I was just happy to get on the plane in the first place,” he said. “Then he trusted me to start and I’m glad I could help the team with a goal. We’ll see where that takes me.”
Looking ahead to the new campaign, Morrison made it clear he wants regular opportunities and hopes to make a bigger contribution after limited first-team involvement last season.
“I want to play as many minutes as I can,” he said. “I want to help the team and I want to score at Anfield. Last season I played two games but it wasn’t to my standard. I know I can give more.”
With competition for places continuing across the squad, Morrison is determined to give Iraola another attacking option.
“I’m just trying to put my foot down and become someone the manager can think about,” he said. “Whatever I can do, I’ll do it to the best of my abilities.”
The 19-year-old also praised the strong group of academy players travelling with the senior squad, saying they are pushing each other to break into the first team.
“It feels like I’m away with my mates,” Morrison said. “Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni broke through last season and we know it can happen at Liverpool. We’re all pushing each other to be the next one. I’ll be selfish and say I hope it’s me.”
Morrison also highlighted the influence of Liverpool’s senior players, naming Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa and Dominik Szoboszlai as players who have set the standard.
“Everyone has been brilliant,” he said. “You see players like Dom staying behind after training to work on finishing and free-kicks. They’re among the best players in the world, so as young players we have to keep working hard and learn from them.”
Liverpool’s next pre-season game is against Wrexham on Thursday at Yankee Stadium in New York City, USA.
