Jason McAteer has hailed youngster Harvey Elliott for reminding him of midfielders Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.

         The 18-year-old joined the Reds in 2019, having been loaned out to Blackburn last season and has impressed with seven goals and 11 assists. Rest from 42 games and return to the team in pre-season.

         While Elliott is determined to fight for the starting XI this year, McAteer added that seeing the youngster reminded him of Barcelona legends Xavi and Aeneas.

         “I was a huge fan of him from the minute I saw him. I saw him in a pre-season friendly in Switzerland, his passing was commendable, his touch on the ball was unbelievable. McAteer told LFC TV.

         “His best position is the million dollar question. For me I can see – and these are the big names coming in – I can see Xavi and Iniesta in him, I can see Thiago as well.

         “Players like that are evolving. when I say that I see people who can see the ball. Plays with the ball comfortably – he has that. He always wanted to go forward. In his head he was constantly thinking while looking around where he could attack.”