'Senior visit can be extra motivation here'
Liverpool's first team will take a special trip from Melwood to the club's Academy in Kirkby today to pass on their wisdom to the young players learning there – further proof, according to Neil Critchley, of the strong link forged between the two camps.
The event is the second of its kind during Brendan Rodgers' managerial tenure and will involve the Reds' senior side participating in training sessions with a variety of age groups and imparting their knowledge of the game to the aspiring footballers.
It is a continuation of the relationship that has significantly developed under the manager across more than two years and allowed a series of talents to make the step up to Melwood and, in many cases, achieve a debut for the first team.
"There's a buzz around the place and all the boys can't wait for it," explained U18s boss Critchley ahead of the afternoon visit. "It's fantastic for the Academy to have the first-team manager and players coming down here.
"It makes everyone at the Academy feel like an integral part of the club. The fact the first team take such an interest in what goes on here gives everyone great motivation to carry on the work they've been doing.
"Melwood might be a few miles away but we don't feel disconnected in any way. We may be apart in terms of the two sites but the communication and bond between the Academy and first team is top drawer. In a way it actually helps having the two sites as getting to Melwood gives the boys something to aspire to."
Critchley will hope that the inspiration provided by working with the likes of Steven Gerrard at such close quarters can take effect when his U19s continue their UEFA Youth League campaign in Bulgaria on Wednesday afternoon.
Currently trailing both FC Basel and Real Madrid by three points in their group, the young Reds require a positive result against Ludogorets Razgrad to retain hopes of reaching the next stage of the competition.
"We've got two games to go in Europe and we need to win them both to qualify," assessed Critchley, who has overseen two victories and two defeats in Group B to date.
"Ludogorets haven't had a good time in the competition so far but we have to make sure we go there and do a professional job. Four points might be enough to get through but we have to aim to win them both."