Former Preston boss Graham Westley insists Ben Davies can handle his move to Liverpool.

Westley, who handed Davies his Preston first-team debut as a 17-year-old, has no doubt that the imminent signing will shine under Jurgen Klopp's stewardship.

He told The Athletic: "I like courage in players, courage to receive the ball and work the ball forwards, courage to succeed in the challenge, courage to undo an opponent's attacking assets and work hard enough and persistently enough to see those assets off.

"In a defender, it is the final two qualities that are the most important. It was obvious to me at a very young age that Ben had all three. That's why I debuted him so young and believed so strongly in his potential.

"If there is a challenge, you want a player who keeps his eye on the ball and truly means to win it. Without hesitation, that's Ben.

"He's a very straightforward and level-headed lad. He looks you in the eye, he takes praise and criticism well. You'd want him on your side.

"I was willing to gamble on his talent and give him games. It cost me. Early on he conceded an unnecessary late penalty that lost us a game at Deepdale that we were pressing to win. Because Preston was a promotion-focused club, it was difficult to let youth play. I understood his slow curve and loan-based evolution."