Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish was delighted with Jonjo Shelvey's performance in victory over Aston Villa.

The former Charlton starlet gave an accomplished showing throughout and the boss was more than satisfied with how the youngster rose to the occasion.

He said: "It was obviously his first start. He did really well. He must've been a little bit nervous but he settled down really quickly.

"Last year he came on as a sub a couple of times for us and he picked up the game very quickly. It was natural progress for him to go to Blackpool this year, which is a little higher up than reserve team football. He did really well there for a few games and he's been back training with us for a few weeks now.

"Because of the situation Jay (Spearing) was in and Lucas (Leiva) was in, we thought it was a good idea to bring him back. He's done particularly well and can be very pleased with his first start."