Morton and Clarkson impress
The last time Portuguese opponents travelled to Anfield in the Champions League, it was a big moment in the career of Tyler Morton.
Given a first start in Europe – and only second for the Reds – the midfielder impressed in a 2-0 triumph that led to further first-team outings during the autumn and winter.
Lately, though, the 19-year-old has continued his development away from the senior spotlight and, rather than be in contention for Wednesday's visit of Benfica, Morton started in midfield in this Lancashire Senior Cup semi-final against Blackpool alongside Leighton Clarkson, another to have tasted first-team action this season when on loan at Championship side Blackburn Rovers.
READ MORE: Liverpool could be set for big advantage ahead of Man City showdown at Wembley
READ MORE: Andy Robertson reveals what can't be discussed in Liverpool dressing room
Both showed clear signs of having played at the higher level. Clarkson was the more impressive of the duo early doors, showing neat control to take the ball away from an opponent and initiate the move for the opener and then swinging in the corner for the second.
Morton struck the game's best goal, thumping in an angled drive from 25 yards after Conor Bradley's lay-off. It was, dare it be said, a finish reminiscent of Steven Gerrard.
But Clarkson gained the reward his performance merited by following up Jack Bearne's saved shot to complete the 4-1 victory late on. What Liverpool decide is the best route for both Clarkson and Morton next season will be intriguing.
Quansah stepping up
Much of the season has been a case of making up for lost time for Jarell Quansah. Having skippered the under-18s to the FA Youth Cup final last season, Quansah didn’t appear again until mid-October due to injury.
The 19-year-old centre-back, though, made the bench for the first team at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and against Leicester City in the Carabao Cup.
Quansah continues to adjust to life with the U23s having been promoted this term, with the competition for places - bolstered by the January return of Rhys Williams from a loan spell at Swansea City - meaning starts have been at a premium of late.
The defender, then, was keen to grasp an opportunity alongside Williams at the heart of defence up against a Blackpool side that contained a number of first-term players, not least forward Jerry Yates who notched 20 goals in League One last season and five in the Championship this term.
While Yates scored what was ultimately a consolation for the visitors, Quansah appeared assured throughout, which wasn't easy in the swirling conditions.
And his threat at set-pieces saw him register Liverpool's second with a well-timed run and header. The teenager can be pleased with his work.
Balagizi bubbling
There has long been a buzz about James Balagizi. Given his physique, power and ability on the ball, it’s understandable. The real issue, though, has been finding the youngster a position from which he can truly demonstrate his wares.
Balagizi found himself down the centre of a three-pronged attack here, a false nine regularly dropping into midfield and allowing fellow forwards Bearne and Max Woltman to cut in with pace from out wide.
In terms of the overall approach, it worked as, with Balagizi playing in between the lines, it allowed his fellow forwards to run at the exposed Blackpool centre-backs, such as when Woltman set up Bearne for the first goal.
Like Quansah, Balagizi has made the step up to the U23s this season while also making the first-team bench and progressing at international level with England U19s. And, as here, there is a feeling there is more to come from the 19-year-old next term.
Before then, however, is the small matter of a Lancashire Senior Cup final against Burnley as the Reds look to win the trophy for the first time in five years.
