Dale youngster given trial by Liverpool

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Matt Hughes, a 15-year-old defender who has been groomed at Rochdale Football Club's Centre of Excellence, has been given a trial by Liverpool.

Hughes has impressed in the academy and reserve team at Dale and, despite still being at school, Liverpool will offer a permanent deal if he does well during his time at the club.

Dale assistant manager Dave Flitcroft is delighted that Liverpool have shown an interest in the talented youngster.

"Everyone at the club knows the importance of youth development," Flitcroft told Rochdale's official website. "And we are constantly striving for improvement.

"As for Matty himself, I could not be more pleased. Out of adversity in a reserve match when he came on from the bench we have seen him grow.

"The big thing was the way that the other players really took to him and embraced him.

"He has great leadership qualities and a fantastic attitude and I can honestly say that I have never seen a young player so focused.

"To see a story like this unfold in front of your eyes is fantastic. I feel sure Matty is going to be a real player who goes on to play at a very high level."