Rafa welcomes duo into CL squad

The pair, who were both part of the FA Youth Cup squad last season, have been named in Liverpool's 28 man Champions League squad. Benitez says it's a chance for the pair to follow in the footsteps of Stephen Darby, Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly by making their first team debuts in the competition.

"We had to leave two players out of the list which was a difficult decision," said the boss.

"For the young players to be involved is a very good experience for them. It is important for them to be on the list and if they are in the squad, or play, it would be fantastic for them.

"Always when you go away with the senior players you can learn something so I think that will be really important for them.

"We have to prepare the team for these six games and then hopefully we will have more games when the group finishes.

"We have been working with some senior and young players and have been playing five-a-sides and doing some tactical work.

"We played a match against our under-18 team at the Academy the other day and it was good to see the players. The relationship with the Academy is good and it's positive and much better.

"The young players know if they work hard and improve then they will get their chances."