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Brendan Rodgers insists the influx of top class talent to Anfield this summer won’t block the pathway to the first team for Liverpool’s youngsters.

The Reds boss significantly bolstered his squad during the transfer window as he splashed out £116million on nine new signings in the wake of Luis Suarez’s club record £75million move to Barcelona.

Rodgers now boasts greater strength in depth that at any point in his Anfield reign but he says the club’s Academy prospects should be inspired rather than daunted by the challenge facing them as they look to make the grade.

The Northern Irishman has repeatedly demonstrated his willingness to put his faith in youth and he’s adamant that won’t change this season.

“I don’t think it’s more difficult for young players here now,” Rodgers told the ECHO.

“In fact I think there will never be a greater chance if you have the responsibility and if you have the talent.

“Young players will never have a better opportunity at any club than at Liverpool.

“New players coming in here won’t stand in their way. If a young player is performing he will play. I will always look to young players.”

Liverpool’s resurgence under Rodgers has raised the bar in terms of what’s required as the club’s youngsters battle to establish themselves at Anfield.

Now the Reds are back in the Champions League and challenging for the biggest prizes, they are seeking a higher calibre of player.

This summer saw Academy graduates Jack Robinson, Martin Kelly, Kristoffer Peterson and Conor Coady depart after being informed they were surplus to requirements.

But others are continuing to flourish. Raheem Sterling’s remarkable development has seen the teenager become a key figure for both club and country.

Jon Flanagan is another former Academy starlet who has nailed down a place in Rodgers’ plans.

The 21-year-old defender, who grew up just half a mile from Anfield, is on the comeback trail following a knee injury and is close to penning a new long-term deal.

“Yes, the dynamics of the group and the whole club has changed now but that doesn’t make the opportunity any less for the young player,” Rodgers added.

“There is an opportunity here for a young player if he has that talent base and the determination and the desire.

“Look at Raheem and what he’s achieved since he broke into the side. He’s only 19 but is maintaining his place. If other players here have that quality then they will play.

“Javier Manquillo is only 20 but after arriving here he went straight into the team because he showed up so well in training and in the Borussia Dortmund game. He will feature heavily for us this season.

“It’s never about the age for me, it’s about the talent and the commitment to playing.”

Five of the nine players Liverpool signed this summer are aged 22 or under and the manager believes he has the right balance between youth and experience.

Rodgers, whose side return to action after the international break when they entertain Aston Villa on Saturday, is hoping the increased competition for places this term will spur everyone on.

“Young players inspire senior players as they come in and add energy,” he added.

“The more senior players then use their experience to help and guide the youngsters.

“Every player here will be able to contribute and I will need them all this season as we’ve got a lot of games. That is a great position to be in as the manager.

“When there’s no threat to your position it’s never quite the same as when you’ve got someone day in day out doing really well who can put you under pressure.

“That’s what we need if we’re going to be successful.”