Pedro: This club gives young players a chance
Pedro Chirivella is hopeful that his senior debut for Liverpool against Bordeaux on Thursday evening can be the start of something special.
The talented Spaniard, who only turned 18 on May 23, was called from the bench by Brendan Rodgers when defender Kolo Toure was forced off due to injury 28 minutes into the Reds' first Europa League group game of the new season.
But he quickly proved himself worthy of the step-up as he slotted seamlessly into central midfield and helped his teammates claim a 1-1 draw on foreign soil.
Last night's outing is the latest step for the former Valencia teenager after he was included in the first-team squad for the summer tour of Thailand, Malaysia and Australia over the summer - and he was understandably delighted with how things went.
Speaking with the Liverpool Echo, Chirivella said: "It was very unlucky for Kolo as he has been working really hard. I felt so sorry for him but I had to be ready to help the team.
"The manager told me to keep calm and to play my game.
"With it being my first game there were a few nerves but I just tried to focus on playing well for the team.
"I think it was a very good performance from us away from home and a good point for us."
Chirivella was paired with fellow Academy starlet Jordan Rossiter in midfield following his introduction and says that having a familiar face alongside him made things much easier
He added: "Jordan and I understand each other's game.
"We've played together for the past two years and support each other. It was great to be out there with him."
It was also a big night for teenage midfielder Cameron Brannagan, who made his senior bow as a substitute in the second half, replacing the cramp-stricken Rossiter.
And Chirivella believes the manager's trust in his young players means he has the chance to build on a successful start to his Anfield career.
He added: "Liverpool is a team that always gives chances to young players and that gives you motivation as a youngster.
"The manager said well done to me afterwards but I know I have to keep going.
"Hopefully this is the start of a big career for me at Liverpool."