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Liverpool striker Taiwo Awoniyi admits he's devastated that red tape has wrecked his dream of playing for the club.

The 21-year-old frontman hasn't been able to get a work permit in the UK since signing for the Reds from Nigeria's Imperial Academy in the summer of 2015.

Awoniyi has caught the eye during a fifth spell out on loan, having scored seven goals in nine matches for Belgian side Mouscron since January.

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However, having so far failed to force his way into the senior Nigeria team, he's unlikely to get a work permit once again this summer. As a result Liverpool may have to reluctantly sell him with Schalke among a number of European clubs keen to secure his services. He's valued at around £12million.

"It saddens my heart that it's been difficult to get a work permit for the past four years," he told BBC Sport.

"At the end of the season we have to go back to Liverpool to discuss. Everyone knows the importance of the work permit and how it works, and that you'd need to play for your national team.

"If you don't get a chance with your national team then it becomes difficult to get it.

"Personally, I chose Liverpool because I would love to play in the English Premier League for Liverpool.

"If God says it will happen then it will, but if not then I can only go on with my life and career."

(Image: YORICK JANSENS/AFP/Getty Images)

Awoniyi, who signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool last summer, is desperately hoping that his impact in Belgium is rewarded with a senior international call-up. He currently plays for Nigeria Under-23s.

For non-EU players to be granted a work permit, they must prove that they are of "the highest calibre".

"Nigeria is blessed with so many talented players and whoever finds himself playing for the country should count himself privileged," he added.

"If I get a chance I will be grateful for that but it is not something you have to force. You can only wait for your time and if it comes you have to make good use of it."