Liverpool defender Martin Kelly hopes to taste Carling Cup glory on Sunday in tribute to the youth system.

Having come through the ranks in Kirkby, the England U21 international admits it would be a special moment to help Kenny Dalglish's side lift the Carling Cup on Sunday.

"To win a first medal with Liverpool would be very special," Kelly told Liverpoolfc.tv. "I have been at Liverpool since the age of seven and come through the Academy ranks.

"Steve Heighway was a massive influence on getting me to Liverpool and the boss (Kenny Dalglish) has shown a lot of faith in me since he came back to the club.

"It's fantastic for us to get back to Wembley and we have made such good progress since last season. I am also made up for our fans who will be at Wembley cheering on Liverpool again.

"It's such a high stage and hopefully we can get the result everyone wants."