Jürgen Klopp has explained how Rhian Brewster’s performance in training with the first team at Melwood this week earned him his place on the bench against Crystal Palace this afternoon.

The 17-year-old has been named among a youthful Liverpool substitutes’ selection for the first time in his fledgling career.

Klopp said: “It’s the bench we have. Harry Wilson could have been on the bench. Ragnar Klavan with a little bit of pain, could have been on the bench.

“Rhian Brewster did really well last week and he is a natural striker, if we need it.

“It is not sure that we will bring him [on] because Marko Grujic can play this position also, but we don’t have a lot of options so that’s our squad and everything is fine.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool were boosted by the news Joel Matip and Lucas Leiva were passed fit to start today’s encounter after knocks.

Klopp said: “Ragnar Klavan was in training yesterday and felt a little bit still with the medial ligament, but should be OK for next week.

“Joel yesterday did normal training, so it was clear he could start. The same for Lucas Leiva, he came back. The line-up, I am fine with it.”