Liverpool management are delighted with the young, local talent now challenging for first team places.

Martin Kelly, Jay Spearing, Jon Flanagan and Jack Robinson have been regular members of the first-team squad since the return of Kenny Dalglish to the Anfield hot seat, and Clarke insists they are there on merit.

"I think all the young boys have done well and I have been really impressed with them since I came to this club," Clarke told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Martin and Flanno on the right, Jack Robo on the left, Jay Spearing in midfield - they have all impressed me a lot.

"It's a little disappointing maybe for them that they are not playing every week at the moment but they are young, they have got time on their side and they are really good to have in the squad.

"We've got plenty of options all over the pitch this season which is a big plus for the manager.

"It obviously makes his job and team selection a bit more difficult, but the fact we have got competition for places should encourage healthy competition among the players to try and be in the team."