Brendan Rodgers has praised the attitude of Jonjo Shelvey after the midfielder recently requested to be deployed in a holding role for Liverpool's U21s to gain experience in the position.

The 21-year-old has made 29 appearances for the Reds' first team so far this season, but hasn't started a game since the clash with West Brom at Anfield on February 11.

Shelvey has since figured in U21 matches against Manchester United, Southampton and West Ham in a deeper-lying position having asked Rodgers if he can turn out for the second string to gain more playing time.

It's an approach that has delighted the manager.

Rodgers said: "Jonjo is a great kid, he wants to learn and he is prepared to work hard. He hasn't had so many chances recently, but he is still a great prospect.

"He played in a reserve game recently, and asked to be used in the holding position because he wants to learn about the role, and about his craft.

"That shows the attitude he has."

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