Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that midfielder Jordan Henderson is a vital part of the club's future.
The 22-year-old, who was a regular first-team member under Kenny Dalglish last season, has yet to start a Premier League clash under Rodgers.
"Jordan's a wonderful talent and he's got a great future here," said Rodgers. "OK, he may not be playing as much as he has done, but his appetite and application and his willingness to learn and improve have really been fantastic.
"He and the other guys on the outside are not happy that they're not playing. But their attitude and desire to work hard have been incredible. We're a very tight group and that's important."
Henderson could start for the Reds' League Cup fourth-round tie against Swansea City this evening.
