Jon Flanagan played the opening 45 minutes as Liverpool U21s beat Morecambe 4-0 in a friendly at the Kirkby Academy on Tuesday afternoon.

It was another step up in fitness for the Scouser who made his return against Fleetwood last week.

The right-back, who has spent the last 19 months on the sidelines following a succession of knee injuries, has been back in training with the first team, as he looks to make his first appearance since the final game of the 2013-14 season.

Beale's charges played some excellent football on the day and secured the win courtesy of efforts from Daniel Trickett-Smith, Sam Hart, Harry Wilson and Adam Phillips.

Jose Enrique was also involved and played the full 90 minutes while Kevin Stewart made a successful return from injury.

Reflecting on the outing, Beale told Liverpoolfc.com: "It was great to give Flanno 45 minutes after his half an hour against Fleetwood.

"He did very well and is looking stronger and he will now look to push on in the next few weeks and get some more minutes.

"Jose did very well and is getting stronger and he will benefit from the 90 minutes.

"Kevin Stewart was excellent for us in his comeback and that was his first outing since injury back in September."