'Jay has nothing to prove'

The midfielder was shown a red card against Fulham earlier this month following a challenge on Moussa Dembele, but the manager doesn't believe the No.20 needs to alter his playing style.

"There was no maliciousness in his tackle. He was totally focused on a winning the ball," said Dalglish. "He did win the ball, but his momentum came through and made contact with Dembele.

"Somebody being over enthusiastic is not something you'd complain about - at that age you'd expect him to be. I'm sure he'll be more knowledgeable for his experience, but there is nothing the wee man needs to change greatly.

"Everybody's character is different, but character is what makes you successful - and the wee man has certainly been successful here. We don't intend - or need to - change the boy's character. He just needs to be a wee bit more mature and I'm sure the three games (suspension) has taught him that."

Dalglish added: "It was disappointing to lose him. The wee man was doing really well. He's served his punishment and is back in after his three games. Maybe that's an advantage of the games coming quite quickly - the suspension never lasted that long.

"He's got nothing to prove to us - we know what Jay can do, we know what he's about and he's done very well for us in the past. There is no reason to think he's not going to do well in the future."