'I once got the Alonso treatment'
In our latest starlet in profile interview we spoke to goalkeeper Jamie Stephens about tonight's NextGen Series clash against Wolfsburg.
The former Swindon Town stopper has illustrated his capabilities with a string of top performances for both the U18s and reserves over the past two years, culminating in a prestigious save of the season award last term.
Here he discusses why Kristjan Emilsson needs fashion tips, who he follows on Twitter and how he once got the Xabi Alonso treatment.
Click on the play button to see Stephens's award winning save last season
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Who would win at 'skill skool'?
I'd put Craig Roddan up against Raheem Sterling. I know he's a hard working central midfielder but Craig has got some serious skills. I think Raheem has been on 'skill skool' before so I know he's good at it. It'd be a close call as to who would win it. I'll surprise you and say Craig!
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Hawaii. It's just a great place to relax and chill out. I'd love to go there.
Last album downloaded?
Kanye West and Jay-Z 'Watch the throne'. It's superb. I love Kanye. I've got every one of his albums.
Last film watched?
The Inbetweeners movie. It was brilliant. Neil is class in it. He's great in the whole TV series but particularly good in the film.
Favourite TV show?
Two and a half men. I love Charlie Sheen. He's had a few mad moments with his Twitter recently but he's brilliant in that show. I watched it when it first came out and have remained a big fan. It's funny looking at how the kid, Jake has changed and grown up in it.
Do you follow Mr Sheen on Twitter?
I am on Twitter but I only really use it to see what other people, like Charlie Sheen, are saying. I keep an eye on all of the music acts because if there is a band playing somewhere and I have a day off, I might make a spur of the moment decision to go and watch them.
Worst dresser?
They'd probably say me. Ha ha. I'm going to go with Kristjan Emilsson. I think his taste has got better since he has been here but it's still a bit dodgy. Too many odd colours. I took him shopping a few times to help him out but he still needs to improve his fashion sense.
Worst taste in music?
Toni Silva. He was playing some really shocking Portuguese soul in the dressing room on Monday. It was just a bit weird.
Best moment in football so far?
I won the league at youth level with Swindon Town. That was a great feeling. When I was even younger I played for a local team that won every single trophy going. It was a clean sweep! More recently I would say signing my professional contract with Liverpool and winning last season's save of the season award. That was an absolute honour.
Worst or most embarrassing moment relating to football...
That would be when I had a trial for my county a few years ago. I got lobbed from about 60 yards. It was a long punt that bounced and skidded over me. I was so embarrassed. I know full well how those other goalkeepers felt when they got the Alonso treatment. I shouldn't be getting beaten from there. I had my hands on my head and there were a lot of people watching! The only good thing that came out of it was that I still managed to make the team despite the cock up.
Which three teammates would be the most useful to get trapped on a desert island with - and why?
I'll say Tyrell (Belford) because he'll make me laugh. He'd be my entertainment. He's always upbeat and enthusiastic. Emilsson would get the nod too. He's a really smart lad so he'd be the one who could figure out a way of getting us out of there! He's a big fan of Lost and all those type of shows. He'd know what to do. Who else? Hmmm. Tom king. He's a funny lad and he'd make sure we all got along well.
If you could take one of the lads to have their haircut, who would it be?
Baio. I know everyone has said him but he seriously needs a haircut. I'm contemplating getting him when he's asleep and shaving it all off. He thinks it's great but it's definitely the worst here!
Teammate who spends longest in the mirror?
Tom Walsh. He spends a good 15 minutes after training just looking at himself and making sure everything is matching. Then he'll go up into the Academy and be seeking out a mirror to check himself out again!
Best ever player in your position?
Gianluigi Buffon. Peter Schmeichel was incredible but Buffon just shades it. He's always been solid. You'd have to say Pepe Reina is up there too. He's a class 'keeper.
Best thing about playing for LFC?
The fans. Everyone you bump into is just so supportive.
And just finally, the NextGen Series game with Wolfsburg takes place today. Are you likely to be involved?
I'm not sure. I'd probably be on the bench but at the moment I've got a bit of an Achilles knock so I'll have to see how it is later. Tyrell has been playing for the reserves so far this season. We have a great friendship off the pitch. He's a great 'keeper but I have faith in my own ability too. He's in a good moment and when he is picked I support him and want the team to do well.