'Brendan has given Reds starlets hope'
Lucas Leiva has been highly impressed at the quality and attitude shown by Liverpool's U21 squad during training over the international break at Melwood.
As the Brazilian international steps up his rehabilitation back to full sharpness after injury, he has been working alongside Michael Beale's squad under the tutelage of Brendan Rodgers at the club's training complex.
And Lucas admits is heartened by some of the players coming through and getting an opportunity to shine.
He told Liverpoolfc.com: "I think since Brendan came in, the young players have been getting a lot of chances, especially training with us.
"We can see a lot of young players coming in and a few of them have made their debuts. Jordan Williams and Jordan Rossiter both made their debut this season and there are a lot of other players that come in and train on a daily basis with us, so it's always good.
"We have some good players there, and I think with the way the club is moving, it's a great opportunity for young players now because we have an experienced group of players but also we have a lot of young players coming in.
"That gives them more hope to have a chance."
One of those players getting an opportunity to make the step-up at Melwood is 18-year-old Spanish forward Sergi Canos.
Having fired 18 goals for the Academy this season, Canos has certainly caught the eye among supporters and he is grateful to the support he has received from Lucas.
"Lucas is an unbelievable player," said Canos.
"You can learn so much from him from every touch he makes, every single moment and it is an honour for me to train with him.
"Even though he is Brazilian he can speak Spanish which is great for me and I can learn so much from him."