Heroes In The Making: Are There More Youngsters To Emerge From Anfield?

Nabil El Zhar, David N'gog, and Emiliano Insua have all played a part this season and they have been amazing.

El Zhar is a winger who is never afraid to battle defenders. The Moroccan has played eight Premiership games so far with one assist to his credit.

David N'gog played his first game in a Liverpool shirt against Aston Villa. The former PSG striker is quick and has scored a goal from his nine appearances so far.

Insua was given a chance to play following Aurelio's absence due to injury and the Argentinian left back repaid the managers faith with his brilliant display. He has played the full 90 minutes in four consecutive Premiership games against Blackburn, Arsenal, Bolton, and Newcastle.

Their impact in the first half of the season indicates that more youngsters will get a taste of first team football in the future.

Here are the seven youngsters that are most likely to make their Premiership debut soon.

1. Stephen Darby

Darby, 20, has made two appearances so far, the defeat against Tottenham in the Carling Cup and the victory over PSV Eindhoven in Champions League group phase. The former youth team skipper is very likely to get his Premiership debut soon if Rafa fails to land any right back in January.

2. Jay Spearing

Spearing, 20, made his senior debut coming on as a subsitute against PSV Eindhoven. The defensive midfielder played a crucial role in helping the Reserves to clinch the FA Premier Reserve League title last season. Currently lying sixth in the pecking order behind Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano, Lucas, and Damien Plessis, his chance will come. It's only the matter of time.

3. Martin Kelly

Kelly, 18, made his debut against PSV Eindhoven on the same day as Jay Spearing. The towering defender had a back injury that ruled him out for two years. The young centre back will have to wait for his chance, but not too long with veteran Sami Hyypia set to leave at the end of this season.

4. Daniel Pacheco

Pacheco, 18, is a fast Spanish striker. The former Barcelona attacker is becoming a regular in the reserves. What he lacks in height he makes up for in skill and his brilliant display during pre-season was a message sent to the senior strikers at Liverpool.

5. Gerardo Bruna

Bruna will be celebrating his 18th birthday in three weeks time. The former Real Madrid attacking midfielder is a technical dribbler. He was born in Argentina, but has represented Spain at the youth level. He was hailed as the next Lionel Messi during his time at the Bernabeu.

6. Steven Irwin

Irwin, 18, is a versatile player. Although centre midfield is his best position, he has played every position during his time in Liverpool including goalkeeper. He has a bit of everything: good passing, fierce tackle, nice touch, and leadership. Does he remind you of Steven Gerrard?

7. Nathan Eccleston

Eccleston, 18, is a pacy striker with the ability to take on defenders and score goals. The Manchester-born forward is currently playing with the Reserves and, like Irwin, he was among the 25 players registered to play in the first half of the Champions League.

Last time around, the youngsters were usually sent out on loan at lower leagues before sealing a permanent switch. Hopefully in a few years time, the current youngsters will develop into the next Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres.