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'Murray against a kid?' - Liverpool urged to avoid Hoever gamble against Brighton

Former Reds defender Mark Lawrenson believes now is not the time to be risking a 16-year-old in Premier League competition, despite injury struggles

Liverpool “have got a problem in central defence”, admits Mark Lawrenson, but now is not the time to be taking a Premier League gamble on 16-year-old “kid” Ki-Jana Hoever.

The highly-rated youngster was handed a senior debut by the Reds during an FA Cup third round clash with Wolves.

He impressed with his confidence and maturity, but also displayed the signs of inexperience which are to be expected in one so young.