AcademyYouth League preview: 'Stefan Bajcetic inspires us and gives us hope'
Dominic Corness explained how the eye-catching performances of Stefan Bajcetic in Liverpool's senior team have inspired other Academy hopefuls.
Corness, who has been at the club since the age of five, is preparing for Wednesday’s U19s UEFA Youth League last-16 tie with FC Porto in Kirkby.
Bajcetic, 18, also remains eligible to be a part of the young Reds' outfit, but his consistent displays have seen him become a frequent member of Jürgen Klopp’s first XI.
“It gives you a lot of hope,” Corness told Liverpoolfc.com.
“Obviously we know Stef really well, he’s a quality player and he’s a sound lad as well, and we are all made up for him getting this opportunity.
“It does give you a lot of hope that if you keep doing the right things then you will get your chance.”
Corness and the U19s have another big challenge ahead when Porto visit the Academy - with kick-off set for 5.30pm GMT, live on BT Sport.
In the group stage, Barry Lewtas’ charges won five of their six games in Group A and racked up 20 goals across that period.
“We are looking forward to it and can’t wait for Wednesday,” said Corness.
Highlights: Liverpool U19s 5-0 Napoli
- Want to watch this video? Subscribe to LFCTV GO now and get a month FREE using the code GOFREE23
“We are having a good run in the UEFA Youth League so far this season and we want to continue that.
“This is my last year playing in this competition so I want to try to make it the best it possibly can be.”
The U19s have been excellent on home turf in this competition and will be hoping to maintain that advantage against the Portuguese side.
“That can be a massive help, playing at home, but we just want to win the game as best we can,” added Corness. “We have got a good team and we have gelled really well.
“We have the same principles as we do when playing with the U21s and we know how we want to play and impose our style on the opposition.”
The 19-year-old, who signed an extended contract with the club in November, has been handed the captain’s armband by Lewtas for the U21s this season.
With Jarell Quansah out on loan at Bristol Rovers, Corness is expected to lead the team out once again.
“I’ve enjoyed it a lot and I’ve got a lot to thank Barry for,” he finished. “I’m just trying to be a leader as much as I can day in, day out and trying to make the most of this responsibility.”
This article has been automatically translated and, while all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, some errors in translation are possible. Please refer to the original English-language version of the article for the official version.