Taiwo Awoniyi admits he didn't expect to endure work-permit problems after signing with Liverpool in 2015.

Awoniyi starred for Nigeria in the U17 World Cup back in 2013 and was eventually signed by Liverpool from Imperial Soccer Academy in 2015.

Five years later and Awoniyi has still not been awarded a work-permit to allow him to play in England.

Instead the striker has been a perennial loanee, spending time at FSV Frankfurt, NEC Nijmegen, Gent and Royal Excel Mouscron. He has spent this season at German club Mainz.

But despite not being able to play for the Reds, Awoniyi says he has been delighted for the club's recent success, which included a Champions League final win last season.

Speaking about his experience, Awoniyi told Tribalfootball.com: "When it comes to work permit, this is one of the things you can't control as well and to be honest, I never knew it was this difficult years back, when I signed for Liverpool.

"But as a Liverpool player on loan, it was great feeling seeing the success of the club and happy for each individual in the club and also a motivation for me as a player, I must say."

After penning a new deal in 2018, Awoniyi is committed to the Merseyside club until 2023.

Asked if had spoke with manager Jurgen Klopp, Awoniyi added: "Yes I had contact with Jurgen Klopp. Of course he had given me advice."