The Anfield stalwart has been highly impressed with the Reds’ youngsters
While it certainly wasn’t the ideal result last Friday against Exeter, the fact that Liverpool’s youngsters dominated the game and claimed a deserved replay was cause for much encouragement.
With the likes of Jerome Sinclair, Brad Smith, Kevin Stewart and Ryan Kent all featuring or making their debuts, there was a huge gulf in experience between the two sides.
Despite that though, Liverpool could comfortably have won and will now be big favourites to progress at Anfield.
And Liverpool’s current longest serving player has spoken of how impressed he is with the Reds young stars.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, he said: “I think they did pretty well. It was difficult conditions, the pitch wasn’t so good, but they took their chances.
“It was a hard game, of course, and going behind twice, but to get the equalising goal is all credit to them to keep going and keep believing.
“We now have another chance to play the replay and hopefully get through.
“I think there are a few [standouts] to be honest. Probably the ones that have been playing more and playing really well.
“Joao [Teixeira], he had a very good game against Bournemouth and Exeter; Cameron [Brannagan], I think he’s a very good footballer, he’s not afraid to tackle and technically he’s very good; both full-backs, Brad [Smith] and Connor [Randall], they have been very good.
“All of them have been training here and getting their chances and the future is very bright for them.”
Lucas had been one of the first names on the team sheet since Jurgen arrived, but has been in and out of the team in recent weeks, though is likely to return against Premier League leaders Arsenal.
And considering that Wenger’s are one of the form teams in the league at present, Lucas could have a pivotal role to play against the visitors.
He continued: “We hope [it will help] because we’ve just had a few more days to prepare.
“We are used to this time of the year you get more injuries and that’s why you need everyone. Everyone needs to be ready when the chance comes.
“But at the same time you have injuries, you have players coming back, which is a big boost for the squad, and hopefully we will be fine for the next busy period that we have.
“It’s the life of a footballer, especially if you want to fight for the club
“You’ll never be 100 per cent, it’s a very rare day where you wake up and feel perfect – I don’t think it’s possible.
“So you just have to cope with pain and, if you can cope with some kind of pains, you play.
“That’s what a lot of players are trying to do, to cope with pain and help the team because we need it.”
