'Nobody is Luke Littler' - Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp makes comparison to Man Utd-supporting darts sensation as German addresses pressure being placed on Reds' young guns

On Sunday, Liverpool's academy players drew praise for how they inspired the Reds to a Carabao Cup final triumph over Chelsea at Wembley, before a youthful Reds side backed that up with a 3-0 win over Southampton in the FA Cup on Wednesday. That led manager Klopp to liken them to 17-year-old darts phenomenon Littler - who burst onto the scene late last year. However, the former Borussia Dortmund boss is keen to not overhype the youngsters.

The German told reporters: "I know that they are not ready for it. Nobody is Luke Littler. What could disturb a career for a young prospect is always one part. It was wonderful them on that night [against Southampton], but now it's about dealing with the challenges coming up."

He added: “It is a little bit like the new darts sensation, it is fine for tonight. Tomorrow, leave the boys in the corner.”

At a time where Liverpool have been beset by injuries to key players, the emergence of this young crop of talent is a welcome distraction for Klopp. They will need all the help they can get if they want to achieve an historic quadruple in the German's last season in charge - with the Europa League, Premier League, and FA Cup still to play for.

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday when they travel to lowly Nottingham Forest. They currently hold a one point advantage over defending champions Manchester City, whereas Arsenal are two points back in third.