Masterson: We can't wait for Manchester United test
Conor Masterson has revealed Liverpool's U19s can't wait to face Manchester United in Europe this afternoon in what represents one of the biggest games of their fledgling careers.
A place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Youth League is at stake as Steven Gerrard’s side take on the Red Devils in a last-16 tie at Prenton Park.
Read on for Masterson's thoughts on taking on United, Prenton Park being a lucky omen for the Reds, and playing for his hero Gerrard…
On the excitement of facing United in Europe…
“The whole team is buzzing. It’s against our local rivals, we are really looking forward to it and it should be a good game. We have been speaking about this game since the draw was made and we can’t wait for Wednesday. Playing Manchester United at Tranmere Rovers, hopefully we will get a decent crowd and it should be a good game.”
On the importance of starting well…
“I think the first 10 to 15 minutes is so important and we have to start well. We have to deal with the pressure and the hype of the game, relax and then hopefully we can do well.”
On his family coming over from Ireland…
“My uncle and his friend are coming over to watch it, my mum and dad will be there and it will be nice. In Dublin you are either a Liverpool fan or a Manchester United fan so it’s a good game to look forward to on Wednesday.”
On Prenton Park being a good venue for the Reds in the tournament so far…
“We have won every game in the UEFA Youth League at Prenton Park so far and we haven’t conceded a goal there, either, so hopefully that will stand us in good stead on Wednesday.”
On starting the tournament with a goal in a 4-0 win over Sevilla...
“Steven Gerrard and Critch [Neil Critchley] gave us a good talk before that game and we were buzzing. We just went out and tore them apart really. I was happy with my goal, to be honest. It was nice to get on the scoresheet but it was most important we got the win.”
On playing for the U19s under Gerrard…
“To be honest, that has been unbelievable. He was my idol since I don’t know what age. To work with him, be around him and just to get tips off him is surreal really. I love working with him and Critch. I have learned a lot from Critch, defensively and tactically. He has really helped me as I’ve come up the age groups.”
On the absence of Rhian Brewster and opportunities for Liam Millar and Glen McAuley…
“It has been a great season from Rhian, he has done really well and he needs to be happy with himself. He’s a top player and we are going to miss him, but now it’s a chance for Liam and Glen to shine and hopefully they can deliver. Liam has done really well for us, he has pace, power and he can finish as well. Glen is a funny lad, he is always there around the goal and if we need someone to score he might be the one.”
On playing as a right-sided centre-back in a back three in the tournament so far…
“We are used to it because we played that way under Critch a few times last season as well so it’s not too different. I don’t mind and I think we’ve adapted to it and I enjoy playing that way. Attacking-wise it’s easier because we get players up the pitch quicker and it helps us score more goals.”
On being one of the more senior players…
“At the start of the season for the U23s we were the youngest and now we are the oldest! [Critchley] just wants us to be the leaders on the pitch and help the young lads.”
On the display of 16-year-old Neco Willliams for the U23s against West Ham United on Saturday…
“He was very good. I thought Neco did really well against West Ham. That was a tough game but I thought he handled himself really well. I was talking a lot to him and he did well.”
We will have delayed coverage of this tie on LFCTV and LFCTV GO, while fans can also follow live updates on Liverpoolfc.com.
Kick-off is at 3pm GMT and supporters wishing to attend the game can click here for admission details.