Cameron Brannagan made a bold statement of intent in his post-match interview following the 2-2 draw with Exeter City, as the midfielder claimed himself and the other Liverpool youngsters are determined to break into the first-team.

The 19-year-old was a key player in the FA Cup draw at St James' Park as the Reds twice fought back from losing postions to earn a replay at Anfield. With injuries currently plaguing the Merseyside club, it looks as if Brannagan will be given a chance to prove his worth and the Manchester-born playmaker looks set to take his opportunity. 

"Obviously it is a disappointing time to see some great players injured, but we've got to take our chance when it comes and carry on with what we are doing."

Speaking about the result it seemed the Brannagan was unhappy with the result. He admitted the team are collectively "disappointed" to have drawn, especially given they were hoping for an away victory - but said it was "great" for the youngsters, like himself, because it'll "hopefully give us the chance to play again."

The tie was a hard-fought contest for both teams with the Premier League side severely lacking experience with just Christian Benteke and Adam Bogdan serving as the senior players while outcast José Enrique returned - serving as a makeshift centre-back.

The two goalscorers on the night were both Liverpool Under-21 players, Jerome Sinclair - the club's youngster ever debutant, having featured in a League Cup fixture against West Brom (2012, aged 16 years, 6 days). Australian fullback Brad Smith also scored to level the scoring at 2-2, with the 21-year-old's most recent apperance during their 6-1 cup mauling over Southampton back in December.

Injuries may force Klopp's hand

Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp was forced to field a starting eleven with just two players making more than four first-team appearances for the club (Benteke and Enrique). He opted for the changes as a total of 13 players are currently injured, with seven of them suffering hamstring problems. 

The Reds are now scheduled to play Exeter in their FA Cup third round replay at Anfield in 12 days' time, the young starlets who featured in the first tie may be relied upon again as the eccentric German may opt against risking his already-weakened squad. 

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Joel Lampkin
Sports Journalist from Chester University, Professional wrestling writer. Contact [email protected]