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It was a moment of true class which delighted the fanatical Malaysian crowd at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.

Spotting Felda United’s keeper off his line in Thursday’s practice match in Kuala Lumpur, Liverpool’s Joao Carlos Teixeira executed a perfect 40-yard lob before being mobbed by his team-mates.

“It was a nice goal to score,” a beaming Teixeira told the ECHO above the din.

“I saw that the goalkeeper wasn’t in a great position and I was pleased to see it go in.

“The support we have here is beautiful and it’s great to play in front of them.”

The fact that Teixeira is back playing at all is impressive enough considering he broke his leg just over three months ago.

The Portugal Under-21s international was stretchered off after a challenge from Huddersfield’s Nahki Wells while playing for Brighton in April.

That brought a promising season-long loan spell in the Championship to an abrupt conclusion.

The attacking midfielder returned to Merseyside and plans for a summer holiday were shelved as he focused on doing his rehabilitation and getting back ahead of schedule.

IN PICTURES: Reds romp to 3-0 victory over Felda United in Kuala Lumpur

“I fractured my fibula and damaged two ankle ligaments so it was a tough time,” Teixeira said.

“I had surgery and then my summer was spent with the Liverpool physios trying to get back fit as quickly as I possibly could.

“I didn’t have a holiday, I just spent the time getting fit. I knew how important this pre-season period would be and I didn’t want to miss the tour.”

Teixeira is desperate to show Brendan Rodgers how much his season on the south coast aided his development.

He scored six goals in 35 appearances for Brighton and was crowned their Young Player of the Year. He also picked up Liverpool Academy’s Players’ Player of the Year award.

“I played 45 minutes in Bangkok and then to get an hour in the training match was good,” he said.

“I am very happy to be back at Liverpool and wearing the shirt again. Getting some minutes is important.

“I really want to prove I can be a player for this club. I improved a lot last season. The Championship is a really physical and quick league.

“As a young player it was good for me to play against so many experienced players.”

'It's a big season for me'

Teixeira cost the Reds £800,000 from Sporting Lisbon in 2012.

He made the leap from the Kirby Academy to Melwood prior to Rodgers handing him a first-team debut against Fulham in February 2014.

Now 22, he’s aware the clock is ticking. This is a make or break season for him with Liverpool.

Competition for places is intense but Teixeira wants to stay put and realise his Anfield dream.

“This is my third year here and it’s a big season for me,” he said.

“I really want this. I want to play for Liverpool.

“I am working hard, waiting for my chance and when it comes I’ll do everything I can to take it.

“I haven’t spoken to the manager much yet about where I fit into his plans but hopefully when I get back to Liverpool we’ll have time to speak about that.

“I know all the minutes I get and all the training, the manager is watching. I do whatever I can to impress him.”

Follow updates from Liverpool's friendly with a Malaysian XI with our liveblog