Steven Gerrard is confident Raheem Sterling can become an England regular after he earned a late call-up for Tuesday night's World Cup qualifier with Ukraine at Wembley. However, England skipper Gerrard does not want too much pressure to be placed on the 17-year-old.
"He is a fantastic talent, one of the shining lights at our club this year, even though results haven't been good enough.
"It is great for him to be called up and get a feel for the senior group because it won't be too long before he becomes a regular in this group. He is that good.
"He is a mature 17 year old. There is nothing flash about him at all. He is a quiet kid. He works hard and listens and that is the key when you are that age and a good player.
"If you can listen and take advice from good managers and players, you will keep on progressing and improving.
"He is a breath of fresh air, especially for the older lads, with the pace and excitement he brings. He is a nightmare to mark for defenders."
But Gerrard also stressed: "Let's be patient with him. Let's not force it and expect too much too soon.
"Let it happen naturally and in time we will have a fantastic player for Liverpool and England.
"Of course, a lot more people follow the game, social media, and the impact of the Premier League is worldwide. The expectations are high with young kids.
"It is different for the young lads now, there is a lot more pressure on them. It's important the people around them support them and give them the back-up they need.
"Just because you break into an England squad, or played a handful of games for your club, it doesn't mean you are the finished article.
"There is still so much improving and learning for these guys to do."
