Young Liverpool trio sign new long-term contracts at Anfield

Liverpool trio Kevin Stewart, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ben Woodburn have signed new long-term contracts at Anfield.

Stewart has earned himself a spot in the first team under manager Jurgen Klopp, making 17 appearances for the club so far.

Alexander-Arnold caught the eye after starting for the Reds in their 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the EFL Cup last month, while Woodburn has become a regular in the Under-23s side.

Klopp has welcomed the news, claiming that the academy provides a "clear pathway" for young talents to break into the first team.

"This is really positive news of course, and it's brilliant we have acted decisively to show our intent with our young players," Klopp told the club's official website. "With Kev it is maybe a little different. He is of course established with us now and making a contribution as an important member of our first-team squad.

"Trent spends most of his time with the first team in this moment and is progressing each and every day. Ben is in those earlier stages and has a lot of developing to do still - but wow, what an exciting talent he is.

"The most important thing for us is the pathway to the first team. I think we have shown that with the work Alex [Inglethorpe] and his staff do at the Academy, we offer a clear pathway to first-team football if the players embrace what is on offer for them. I cannot praise [the Academy] enough for the culture and environment they have there. It is perfect."

Klopp, who sits at the top of the Premier League table with his Liverpool side after 11 games, has claimed that the young trio need to keep their strong work ethic.

"The players know that it's not just about ability - it's application and a willingness to keep learning," added the German coach.

"All three of these players are big talents and are at different stages of their development, but it is development that is key and they must continue to learn and improve to achieve their full potential.

"News like today makes it exciting for me and the first-team staff that their development will continue with us at LFC."

Liverpool have won eight of their league fixtures this season, drawing two and losing one.