Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt believes the future is bright at Anfield after observing the performance of a host of youngsters during the side’s 2-1 friendly win over Switzerland side FC Lucerne.
Manager Rafa Benitez stated last week that several of the young prodigies would be handed their first-team opportunity to “show (him) what they can do”, and the midweek game saw the likes of Jay Spearing, Emiliano Insua and Damien Plessis feature.
It was, however, the performance of 17-year old forward Daniel Pacheco that caught the eye, the Spaniard slicing open Lucerne’s defence to set up fellow apprentice Lucas Leiva for the opening goal.
The performances caught the eye of Kuyt who believes that the group’s inclusion will aid their development at Anfield.
“The tour is important for everyone to get to know each other but this is also a big chance for the young lads,” the Holland international said.
"They did very well tonight and with a bit more luck we could have had four or five goals."
The 27-year old also admitted that he is relishing the hard-work which lies ahead during pre-season as the squad look to regain their fitness ready for the start of the Premiership in August.
"This was my first day back but the lads have told me they've been working very hard this week,” he added.
"The most important thing at this stage is not the result, it's working hard and making sure we are fit for the season.
"The Swiss league starts next week and Lucerne showed they were ready, so it was a good test."
Manager Rafa Benitez stated last week that several of the young prodigies would be handed their first-team opportunity to “show (him) what they can do”, and the midweek game saw the likes of Jay Spearing, Emiliano Insua and Damien Plessis feature.
It was, however, the performance of 17-year old forward Daniel Pacheco that caught the eye, the Spaniard slicing open Lucerne’s defence to set up fellow apprentice Lucas Leiva for the opening goal.
The performances caught the eye of Kuyt who believes that the group’s inclusion will aid their development at Anfield.
“The tour is important for everyone to get to know each other but this is also a big chance for the young lads,” the Holland international said.
"They did very well tonight and with a bit more luck we could have had four or five goals."
The 27-year old also admitted that he is relishing the hard-work which lies ahead during pre-season as the squad look to regain their fitness ready for the start of the Premiership in August.
"This was my first day back but the lads have told me they've been working very hard this week,” he added.
"The most important thing at this stage is not the result, it's working hard and making sure we are fit for the season.
"The Swiss league starts next week and Lucerne showed they were ready, so it was a good test."
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