Jeremie Frimpong’s smile at full-time said everything. The Dutch wing-back finally had his Anfield moment as Liverpool eased past Barnsley 4-1 to book their place in the FA Cup fourth round.
As reported by SoftFootball, the result continued Liverpool’s steady progress in the competition while also delivering a deeply personal milestone for a player who has endured a frustrating start to life on Merseyside due to injury setbacks.
For Frimpong, the night was about more than qualification. With Liverpool currently dealing with defensive absences, including the season-ending injury to Conor Bradley highlighted by SoftFootball, the right-back’s growing influence feels timely.
His performance against Barnsley showed both confidence and freedom, qualities Liverpool have been eager to unlock since his arrival. Liverpool took control early when Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a spectacular strike from distance.
Frimpong then doubled the lead midway through the first half, cutting inside from the right and finishing emphatically. The goal was a statement moment, especially after recent criticism following the Arsenal draw where he opted to pass instead of shoot.
Explaining his mindset, Frimpong admitted he felt scrutiny after that decision, saying:
I feel like I got a bit of stick back home against Arsenal because instead of passing it to Flo I should’ve shot. I just thought this time I’m going to smash it!
Barnsley briefly threatened a response when former Liverpool academy player Adam Phillips capitalised on a rare Szoboszlai error to make it 2-1. Despite that setback, Liverpool regained control late on, with substitutes Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike sealing the win and underlining the squad depth at Arne Slot’s disposal.
For Frimpong, though, the emotional weight of the night centred on finally scoring at Anfield. After months of rehabilitation following injury, the goal felt like release rather than celebration.
Reflecting on the moment in a post shared by the club’s official X account, he said:
It’s my first goal at home. It meant a lot to me because obviously I’ve been injured for most of the time in Liverpool. To score this goal was really like a relief.
Beyond the goal, Frimpong stressed his desire to contribute consistently from the right-hand side, focusing on effort and availability rather than headlines.
He explained:
I just want to help the team and I want to use my ability. I’m just happy to be on the pitch and playing football.
The ambition does not stop there. Frimpong made it clear that his mindset aligns with Liverpool’s expectations.
He added:
Everywhere I’ve been I’ve won everything and that’s what I want to do here. That’s why I play football. I want to win trophies.
With Brighton awaiting in the next round, Frimpong’s Anfield breakthrough may prove a turning point. For a player rediscovering rhythm and confidence, this felt like the beginning rather than the peak.
