Talented Spanish teenager Sergi Canos has finally got his Liverpool career up and running.

The 16-year-old made his competitive debut for the Reds in the U18s 3-1 win over Stoke City last weekend.

Liverpool prised the attacking midfielder from Barcelona in the summer but were waiting for international clearance before fielding him U18 Premier League games.

The Spanish giants were keen to keep hold of Canos but could not offer him a full-time contract until he was 18.

And so Liverpool swooped and snapped up the highly-rated youngster.

Manager Neil Critchley was thrilled to finally select Canos for a league game.

"His clearance came through which was brilliant news for him and us," Critchley said.

"It has been a difficult period for Sergi with not being able to play.

"We would be preparing for games and he would have to watch.

"He kept himself fit but there is no substitute for match fitness.  So it will be a period of time to build his fitness up."

Canos is away on international duty this week with Spain U17s alongside Liverpool team-mate Pedro Chirivella, who joined from Valencia in the summer.

Critchley says that even though Canos' period of inactivity was frustrating he maintained an exemplary attitude.

"His attitude and demeanour around training has been great," said Critchley.

"He doesn't speak much English but he and the club are working hard on that.

"Sergi is such a likeable boy and he is always smiling. He is such an infectious character and he plays the game with energy and life. We are delighted to have him."

Source: Liverpool Echo