Source: PA
Dalglish encouraged by youth
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish believes the club have laid the foundations for a successful long-term future with their academy programme.
Teenage full-back John Flanagan made an impressive debut in Monday's 3-0 win over Manchester City, having previously been an unused substitute for three Europa League matches.
Dalglish's hand was forced somewhat by injuries to defenders but the 18-year-old repaid the faith shown by his manager, who was well aware of Flanagan's qualities having seen the player close up during his involvement with the academy before returning to the first-team job.
"I wasn't surprised it didn't faze him," said the Scot of Flanagan's display. "The development of him over the last year has been fantastic and that is the reward for him.
"Circumstances may have dictated that we pushed him in earlier than we would normally have done but he stood up to it and the good thing for him was he had Jamie Carragher beside him and Dirk Kuyt in front of him.
"The young boy is not bad. For us that is really encouraging as well because it is a reflection of the work that is being done at the academy and if we have a strong academy it can only benefit us in years to come."
