Liverpool reserves coach John McMahon says defender Steve Irwin is making good progress this season.

Irwin wore the captain's armband for the mini-derby victory over Everton last week.

"Steve is a local lad who always does well for us," McMahon told liverpoolfc.tv. "He works hard, shows a good attitude and we can use him in a number of different positions.

"He is doing well and has a good desire. Playing central midfield could be his best position. I think he shows a lot of good attributes there. He can pass, is competitive and that might be his position."