Liverpool defender Nat Phillips is delighted to be back in action with the U23s.

The 21-year-old centre-back, who had been sidelined since November following ankle surgery, started the Premier League 2 game in defeat to Derby on Friday.

"I'm really happy to have got 45 minutes under my belt," the defender told Liverpoolfc.com.

"It was important for me and I enjoyed myself out there, I'm so happy. I just want to get as fit as possible now and get back to full fitness."

Phillips also welcomed the return of Oxlade-Chamberlain, who played 40 minutes of the match in his first action after an 11-month absence.

"I was really happy to see him back and getting some minutes," he said.

"I thought he played well and showed his class. We are all really happy to see him getting some minutes."