Academy keeper given Reds chance

Last updated : 21 September 2003 By Chris Maxwell
The 19-year-old Liverpool-born shot-stopper will compete with Jerzy Dudek and new understudy Patrice Luzi on a regular basis at Melwood after Gerard Houllier decided not to pursue a loan-move to cover for the injury-stricken Chris Kirkland.

Harrison, who is currently in the last year of his contract with the academy, will travel with the senior Anfield squad to Slovenia for Wednesday's opening UEFA Cup clash with Olympija Ljubljana.

Harrison's under-19 coach, John Owens, is only too happy to see another star pupil given the chance to prove his worth alongside the many world-class talents of the Anfield squad.

Owens said: "Everyone at the Academy is so pleased for Paul. It was a great experience for him to be third choice against Leicester and it will be good for him to travel with the first team to Slovenia.

"Paul has tremendous ability, he shows good handling and command of his area, he is good on crosses and an excellent shot stopper."