Liverpool's Under-19s finished as winners of Group A in the UEFA Youth League with a 5-0 win over Napoli on Tuesday and one local starlet's performance had everyone talking.
Goals from Lewis Koumas, Ben Doak, Luke Chambers and a double from Trent Kone Doherty secured Barry Lewtas' side's place in the knockout rounds as they won their fifth of six group games. That makes it nine goals in the last 10 games for 16-year-old Kone Doherty from Derry.
Trent came through the ranks at Derry City, and quickly drew attention from some of Europe's top sides. He eventually joined Liverpool for a reported £150,000 during the summer.
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The Ireland U-17 international is renowned for his pace and has found a habit of hitting the back of the net. Kone Doherty is more slight and subtle, using his pace and touch to escape some of the more muscular players operating at this level.
Comfortable on either side, Kone Doherty was a constant outlet on the left, pinning the defenders back and stretching them with his pace.
His first arrived to make it 4-0 when he reacted quickest after Koumas was denied from close range but it was his second that showcased his talents best as he slalomed past a defender on the outside before finishing into the far corner with his left foot.
Replaced by Janel Young with the result secure, Kone Doherty will be rightly pleased with his efforts. He is another Liverpool star with a bright future.
It was in his fourth year of high school that Kone Doherty gave up playing for the school team to focus on progressing with Derry and the Republic of Ireland at youth level.
That level of focus, hard work and natural ability landed the teenager a dream move to Liverpool where his career looks set to reach the very top.
As well as Tuesday's brace in European action, Kone Doherty has also hit two goals against Stoke and manchester United in recent weeks and his form has got Liverpool fans talking about a possible call up to the first team squad under Jurgen Klopp.
Their struggles with form and fitness this year are well documented and some fans believe the Derry man could provide a much-needed spark.
One Liverpool fan said "I don't want to be too dramatic, but it would be nice to see Trent Kone-Doherty make his senior debut before the end of the season."
While another said: "Trent Kone Doherty, Oakley Cannonier and Ben Doak need to come to t'main team directly!"
While another said: "Trent Kone Doherty is another one to look out for. Great potential."
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