Liverpool teenager Jayden Danns' dad only retired from football last year
It runs in the family. Jayden Danns, the latest prodigy from Liverpool's academy system, is following in the footsteps of his father.
On Wednesday night, the highly-rated Danns became Liverpool's second youngest ever FA Cup goalscorer after he netted a brace in their fifth round tie against Southampton.
It was a night to remember for the 18-year-old. In fact, after scoring twice in front of the Kop End, he said it was "the best day" of his life.
Speaking to ITV, he added: "It is a dream come true. I've supported the club since birth. It doesn't feel true. It feels like I'm in a film. The second one was just pure joy, it didn't feel like it could come to me, I was happy with one. I lost all composure.
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“I don't know what my dad is going to be doing now because he was in tears when I made my debut."
Danns' father, Neil, made his debut for Blackburn Rovers in 2002 during a UEFA Cup clash against CSKA Sofia, went on to make five appearances in the Premier League.
He also played for a host of Football League clubs, including Colchester United, Birmingham City, Crystal Palace, Leicester City, Bolton Wanderers and Tranmere Rovers.
After spending two seasons with Macclesfield after signing for the North West Counties Premier Division side on non-contract terms in 2021, he announced his retirement after making over 600 career appearances.
Now, he is watching on with pride as his son continues to impress in the famous red.
Following an impressive spell in the academy that featured 21 goals, Danns has caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp, who handed the teenager his Premier League debut in their win over Luton.
Danns also featured in last weekend's Carabao Cup final against Chelsea,
And after a late header from Virgil van Dijk sealed the trophy, Neil Danns opened up on his son's achievement.
“Where to start,” he said on Instagram. "Tonight was one of the proudest nights of my life. To see you achieve the first steps of your dreams fills my heart with pride.
“To watch you work and work for your goals is a privilege to be part of. Proud of you son, keep pushing. Love you.”
Simply sublime from Jayden Danns 🙌
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 29, 2024
What a way to score your first goal for the Reds ❤️ pic.twitter.com/SvkYO8tlzf
Neil's daughter Hayla is also showcasing her talent on the world stage. She represented the UK in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest last year.
Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, FA Cup, Blackburn Rovers
Jack Kenmare