Neco Williams has explained how Jurgen Klopp doesn’t give special treatment to Liverpool’s younger players – and why Trent Alexander-Arnold is an inspiration.
Williams has been the major Academy breakthrough star this season, making five senior appearances and on the bench for the FIFA Club World Cup win over Flamengo in Qatar in December.
The 18-year-old is among a number of young hopefuls to have made the step up to regular training at Melwood during the campaign.
And he has been encouraged by the welcome given by Liverpool boss Klopp.
“He's been unbelievable, he's unbelievable with all the youngsters that go up.” said Williams. “Whenever we need help or support, he's always there.
“He'll have banter with us and treat us normally, like a normal player of his.
“Whoever it is – if we're a youngster or one of his older, senior players – he treats us all the same.
“We all have the same banter and it's good times up at Melwood.”
Williams is following in the footsteps of fellow right-back Alexander-Arnold, who came through the ranks at Liverpool to become an integral first-team player and England international.
And the Wales under-19 international is determined to use his team-mate as an example to then start challenging him for a starting role.
“It's just kind of an eye-opener to prove to people that anything is possible with hard work and dedication,” said Williams.
“Trent was at the Academy from a young age and he's gone up through the ranks. Now he's obviously one of the best right-backs in the world and he's playing unbelievably.
“So I think for all the Academy, it doesn't matter what position, it's just an eye-opener to prove to people that it is possible.”
Williams, speaking to liverpoolfc.com, added: “When I'm training obviously I'm trying to focus on myself and my own game but at the same time, I'm watching Trent and trying to study how he plays also and try to take bits and parts of what he does into my game.
“I think that's what I've been doing since I've been going up there (Melwood). That's definitely improving me as a player.
“Hopefully I just keep playing, keep working hard. Hopefully my chances will come and when I'm a bit older and (have) gained the experience, I'll be able to fight for (a place) against Trent.”
