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Steven Gerrard has saluted Ben Woodburn's attitude as the Liverpool teenager battles to force his way into Jurgen Klopp's plans.

Since the high of scoring on his full debut for Wales against Austria last month, the gifted 18-year-old has found himself back playing Academy football.

Woodburn, whose only senior outing for the Reds this term came in the League Cup defeat to Leicester City, has been handed the captain's armband by Gerrard for the club's UEFA Youth League campaign.

The Liverpool Under-18s boss says Woodburn, who caught the eye in Tuesday's 4-1 win over Maribor, is a source of inspiration for his team-mates.

(Image: (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images))

“I think Ben needs to play at the moment so if Jurgen doesn't need him at first-team level it's an excellent opportunity to come and play with his friends who he came through the system with; be the captain and leader in this team and set the example,” Gerrard said.

“I thought he was excellent as an eight, controlling the middle of the pitch for the majority of the game.

“I am pleased with Ben because his attitude and mentality when he comes down to train at the Academy is 10 out of 10. That gives everyone a lift.

“His mates are so happy to have him around and he is smiling and playing around with them so it is a great mix.

(Image: John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

“We all know Ben is going to play different types of football this year, he knows that and is happy with that.

“The challenge is when he comes down to this level can he approach it like a first-team game and so far he has been excellent.

“I think the reason we are getting positive performances is because everyone is bouncing off him.”

Woodburn has started all three group games in the UEFA Youth League so far this season – helping Liverpool pick up six points and move to the top of Group E.

He has embraced being captain and the feedback to Klopp from Gerrard has been glowing.

(Image: John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

“Ben deserves that responsibility,” Gerrard said.

“He has good knowledge having been around the first team for a year and he has had some international experience so he is further down the line than all of these players.

“I also know he is a positive influence around the dressing room. I haven't just given Ben the captaincy because he is Ben Woodburn, he has got it on merit and he will lead by example in his performances.

“He has done that in training and he has also done it in the games so we are really happy for him.”