Northern Ireland starlet in line for a role in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup tie against Southampton

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has called up several youngsters to his squad as he rests his big-name stars

One of Northern Ireland’s talented youngsters could be set to benefit from Liverpool’s squad rotation for their Carabao Cup tie against Southampton on Tuesday night.

Speaking after their victory over Everton in Saturday’s Merseyside derby, Reds boss Arne Slot confirmed a number of his big stars including Virgil van Dijk Ibrahima Konate, Mohamed Salah, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai would not be involved in the cup match at Anfield.

As a result a number of squad players and some of the rising stars from the Anfield academy are set to benefit from Slot’s decision to rest his big name players.

And that is great news for Northern Ireland starlet Kieran Morrison, who looks set to be involved in some way against the Saints.

Liverpool Under-21 boss Rob Page confirmed to fan channel The Redmen TV that the 18-year-old was one of a number of young players who trained with the first team squad on Sunday.

Morrison joined Rhys Williams, Tommy Pilling, Kaide Gordon and Jayden Danns in the session as the Reds began their preparation to face the Championship outfit.

Attacking midfielder Morrison is very highly-regarded at Anfield after signing his first professional deal with the club in April 2024.

The Northern Ireland Under-19 international who started his career at Manchester United, initially caught the eye under former boss Jurgen Klopp.

Last season he was an unused substitute in Liverpool’s Champions League group phase game against PSV.

Speaking to Belfast Live back in 2024, Morrison hailed the support given to him by fellow Northern Ireland star Conor Bradley as he looks to follow him into the Liverpool first team.

“Conor is always looking out for me,” said Morrison. “He’s always helping me to progress as a player and a person. He’s a top role model.”