Wales boss Craig Bellamy praises Liverpool’s handling of Lewis Koumas
Before this season, Koumas had mixed success across his three loans to the second tier.
The forward made 31 starts and scored six goals during his first loan spell at Stoke City for the 2024-25 campaign.
A disappointing stint at Birmingham City followed, before he helped Hull City win promotion to the Premier League in the second half of last season.
“Loans can be hit and miss at times and I’m actually surprised by the amount of game time he’s had at such a young age in the Championship,” Bellamy said.
“It helps with their development. They see it, they smell it. In that period some take off, some don’t, but it’s not going to define your career.
“You’re learning and gaining experience and exposure and Liverpool felt it was right for him to go on loan.
“They decided to keep him for pre-season this year and it’s real example of how to progress a top, young talent.”
Koumas’ next opportunity to impress on the international stage comes this Saturday in Oslo, as Wales take on Norway.
Wales are looking to repeat their win over Stale Solbakken’s side during the last international window to boost their chances of League A survival.
“The thing with Koumy is he hits a lot of the markers,” Bellamy said.
“Intensity and sprint distance through the roof and when you look at a top player he has all the markers for that.
“I like him at nine and I love that intensity. I remember [Carlos] Tevez doing the same for me at Manchester City and players like Koumy inspire you.
“You see him going and you say, ‘I’ve got to go, I’ve got to move as well.’ It’s got to be controlled, but his willingness excites you.”