'I've already framed my shirt - I hope it's the first of many!'

The 19-year-old was handed a berth in Jürgen Klopp’s starting line-up for the FA Cup third-round tie at St James Park on January 8, just days after returning from a loan spell with Coventry City.

“I was overwhelmed to make my debut,” Kent recalled, speaking to the Liverpool Echo. “It was something I had wanted to do for so long. It was all that hard work paying off.

“It was a big achievement for myself and my family. I knew it was my chance to show the manager and the fans what I could do.

“The shirt I wore that night is already framed. I gave it to my mum and dad. That’s for them.

“It’s just a token of thanks. They are the ones who have spent the past 10 years driving me up and down motorways so I could go training and play.

“All those late nights and early starts. A lot of their life has been devoted to me. What I do is for them really. I owe them everything.”

Kent helped a youthful Liverpool side to a 2-2 draw that night against Exeter, before being named on the bench for the Anfield replay, where the Reds ran out 3-0 victors.

That taste of senior action has left him itching for more, and he’s determined to try and make a lasting impression on Klopp at Melwood.

“I could tell when we worked on the team shape that I was starting,” he said. “I was feeling a bit nervous but it was mostly excitement because I knew it was a big chance for me.

“I was happy with how it went but you can’t dwell on that moment because I need to kick on from there and hopefully get more chances.

“We are lucky to be at a club like this under a manager who is willing to give opportunities to young players. Not many top clubs do that so we have to make the most of it.”

Kent continued: “I am hungrier than ever because I know how close it is.

“It’s down to me to show Jürgen Klopp what I’m capable of doing and that I can fit into the first team.

“My main aim now is to make my debut in the league. I have to work hard and prove I deserve that opportunity.”