Despite being in the midst of an injury-crisis, Liverpool’s incredible youth setup plugged the gaps in a spectacular League Cup win over Chelsea on Sunday.
Academy graduates James McConnell, Bobby Clark and Jayden Danns all played the £1billion Chelsea team off the park before Virgil van Dijk’s last minute header decided the final.
Before kick-off, Jurgen Klopp was dealing with an almost laughable 11 first-team injuries, which by full time had extended to 13 as midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo both picked up injuries.
Liverpool FC parade discussions after Carabao Cup success and Jurgen Klopp exit plan
Liverpool could make nine changes against Southampton after new injury problems
The timing of this injury crisis couldn’t have been worse for the Reds, with a crucial FA Cup clash against Southampton on Wednesday night, while remaining in the midst of a title race.
However, there are a number of academy players eager to get their shot at Anfield and Southampton looks to be the best chance for many to put in a statement performance.
Kaide Gordon
Arriving from Derby County in 2021, Gordon was quick to catch the eye of assistant coach Pep Lijnders.
His ability to beat players in the half space with explosive pace and excellent finishing made him an instant hit on Merseyside and Klopp handed him his first team debut in 2021 - a 3-0 win against Norwich in the Carabao Cup.
Following this up with appearances against Brentford and a goal in the FA cup fourth round against Shrewsbury he was marked as the future centre piece of Liverpool’s attack.
However, after developing a pelvic problem linked to his growth he was kept out of action for the remainder of that season as well as 2022/23.
The club’s patience with his
Read on liverpoolecho.co.uk