Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has recalled the first time he saw Jonjo Shelvey play as a youngster and praised the midfielder for his progression since the season kicked off.

The No.33 has bagged four goals, all in the Europa League, during the 2012-13 campaign - shining on a regular basis courtesy of the Northern Irishman's belief in youth.

As Shelvey prepares to face boyhood club West Ham on Sunday, the manager highlighted the 20-year-old's goalscoring ability and rapid improvement - something he noticed before either man arrived at Anfield.

"I actually saw Jonjo play for West Ham when he was there as a young boy," reflected Rodgers, whose team have lost just once in their last ten Barclays Premier League fixtures.

"His father worked there as a coach as well so he's going back to his part of the world. I watched him come through at all the clubs he's been at and I'm enjoying working with him."

Should he feature at Upton Park on Sunday, the former Charlton player will clock up his 22nd appearance of the campaign - a personal record for a single season at Liverpool even at this early stage.

And Rodgers was effusive in hailing the versatile midfield talent, who has occasionally been asked to play further forward and may do so against the Hammers.

Compare Shelvey's season 2011-12 to 2012-13

The boss added: "Jonjo is just 20 years of age but look at the experiences he's getting. He has scored four goals for us in Europe so far.

"He has that ability to get goals. It's about instinct, and the more players we have in the team with instinct, who are goalscorers from different areas of the field, the better.

"Jonjo is certainly one of those who can create and score a goal. He's a terrific young talent but I still think there's a long way to go for him.

"I would never get carried away with any of our young players. Of course it's nice for them to get called up by their country but they are not established internationals yet.

"From where Jonjo was at in August compared to now, it's great credit to him and hopefully he will keep progressing."