Liverpool clinched the signing of Celtic goalkeeper Liam Hughes on deadline day.

The 19 year-old 6ft 3in prospect, who has also played for Lisburn Youth, Portadown and Dungannon Swifts in his native Northern Ireland, will initially link up with Barry Lewtas' Under-23s squad.

Former Irish League manager Rodney McAree is backing Hughes, who worked under him at Dungannon Swifts, to take his big chance.

He told Belfast Live: “It's a massive opportunity for Liam and I'm delighted for him.

"It would be great to see him progress there.

“It's an unbelievable move for Liam and I know he'll do everything to make the most of it because he's got a great attitude.

"He always wants to work hard at his game and he is a great character. He has a good family behind him and it's fantastic to see him earn a move to a club like Liverpool."