AcademyStewart scores four as U21s beat Fleetwood 7-4 in friendly

U21s head coach Barry Lewtas told Liverpoolfc.com: "It was great to give the lads some minutes and it was a very good performance.

"Fleetwood scored three late goals, but overall we played very well. Layton is getting sharper and sharper and he's full of confidence after making his first-team debut."

Stewart achieved his senior bow when he led the line for Jürgen Klopp's team in the Carabao Cup tie with Derby County at Anfield earlier this month.

Lewtas was keen to highlight how hard the striker has worked for his big chance, having returned from a lay-off of more than 13 months due to an ACL injury.

"It was another proud night for the Academy when our manager handed Layton his debut," he added. "Layton is a local lad who has been here since pre-Academy and has gone all the way.

"Like any boy who comes through the journey, he's had his setbacks, but he's worked ever so hard and he's scored goals at Premier League 2 level and been excellent for us.

"To get his debut was a moment he will never forget and he knows the hard work continues if he wants more chances with the first team."

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