Preston North End manager Alex Neil admits he is proud to see Ben Davies sign for Liverpool.

While Preston did not want to lose the talented centre-back midway through the season, they knew he could not turn down a move to the English champions.

Davies is 25 and has been with the Lilywhites Academy since he was ten years old.

He spent time on loan at York City and Fleetwood Town, and has now secured his dream move.

Asked about the transfer, manager Neil told the club website: "It was an opportunity that he certainly couldn't knock back and we certainly couldn't stand in his way.

"We've said that all along about our young players, if an opportunity comes up for them to go to the Premier League, and certainly a team like Liverpool, I think it's an incredible opportunity for Ben.

"He came through the youth academy here as well, so to produce one of our own and for them to go on to a team like Liverpool, it's an incredible achievement for the club and for Ben himself.

"I really hope he goes on and gets an opportunity because I really think he could do well. I think he's got the potential and the attributes in terms of his pace and his comfort on the ball to be a really top player so I will certainly follow him with interest."