Flanagan is the latest product of Liverpool's academy in Kirkby

Jamie Carragher has paid tribute to young Liverpool defender John Flanagan, who made his Reds debut in Monday's 3-0 win over Manchester City.

The 18-year-old only found out he was set for his first senior start less than two hours before kick off.

"He was outstanding," fellow defender Carragher told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"I'm delighted for him and I think it gives the whole club a lift when you see a local lad come through - the supporters love it."

Flanagan was handed his debut because of injuries to defenders Glen Johnson, Daniel Agger and Martin Kelly.

Carragher believes that Flanagan's impressive debut can help to inspire more of Liverpool's youngsters.

He added: "I think at the academy it gives all of them a lift. The young lads at the academy it shows them it can be done.

"There's a bit of competition now between him and Kelly for the local lads. It's great for everyone really that you've got two local lads like that coming through.

"To be honest there's a few more down there so it's up to them lads to take their chance. Flano's done that, but I'm pretty confident that there are more down there."

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