Kenny Dalglish delighted with Liverpool youth set-up

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 night'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. Thrown in at the deep end: Flanagan won plenty of fans with a fine performance on his Liverpool bowWith another academy graduate Jay Spearing starting to develop in central midfield in the absence of Steven Gerrard and Martin Kelly making his breakthrough under Dalglish, the Reds boss believes more players could make the transition. '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. Reasons to be cheerful: Reds manager Dalglish'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.' Liverpool-born Flanagan admitted he was surprised to get his call-up in such a big game. 'It was a dream come true. I was told at quarter to six in the team meeting, it came straight out of the blue,' he said. 'But Carra (Carragher) was telling me what to do and keeping my attention focused.' Midfielder Lucas Leiva also believes the emergence of players like Flanagan points to an optimistic future. 'It was a fantastic achievement not just for him but for the club who are looking to bring young players through,' said the Brazil international. 'Jay is also a very good lad and I think he is doing really well at the moment. He's another player coming from the academy and that is what fans want to see. 'Last night was just one more night when everyone could see Liverpool are going in the right direction and I am happy with the way everything is happening.' Flanagan dedicates Liverpool debut to father who failed to make Anfield gradeCarroll delight after breaking Liverpool duck with double against Man CityDalglish praises strike duo as Reds partnership purrs into actionLiverpool 3 Man City 0: Fernando who? Carroll at the double to sink hapless Blues All the latest Liverpool news, features and opinion  Explore more:People: Jamie Carragher, Kenny Dalglish, Martin Kelly, Dirk Kuyt, Steven Gerrard Places: Liverpool, Brazil

Source: Daily_Mail