Liverpool hero David Fairclough is backing Joao Carlos Teixeira for a big preseason.
The former Sporting CP starlet has been included in Brendan Rodgers' squad for the USA tour and is aiming to follow up his senior debut in the dramatic 3-2 win at Fulham back in February.
"Joao is a player with enormous talent," Fairclough told Liverpoolfc.com.
"I can remember when I first saw him at Anfield when he played for Sporting against Liverpool in the NextGen Series in 2011, and he was the best player on the pitch but little did we know at that time he would be signing for Liverpool.
"His career at Liverpool was blighted at first by the back injury he had when he signed but he has the ability - there's absolutely no doubt about that.
"Brendan has given him one or two opportunities to indicate that he is in his thoughts and he is one that falls into the same pot as Philippe Coutinho. He is a very similar player to our No.10, who can play behind the back line and be very inventive.
"I am expecting big things from Teixeira and this season could be the one when he makes his mark. I have every confidence in him because I just think he's a great player."
