Rhian Brewster’s return to competitive football is slowly edging closer, following 12 months of injury hell at Liverpool.

The Liverpool Echo report that the youngster is now “back out on the grass at Melwood doing ball work with the club’s rehab staff”.

He hasn’t played since last January, after picking up a serious ankle problem in an U23s clash with Manchester City.

Brewster had initially planned to return by Christmas, having signed a new deal at Anfield last summer.

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The Reds have displayed patience with the striker, however, being careful not to rush him back prematurely.

It is believed he could still play a key role this season, with a first-team squad place now available after the sale of Dominic Solanke to Bournemouth.

Jurgen Klopp has huge faith in Brewster, who was a vital part of England U17s’ World Cup success in 2017.

He finished the tournament with eight goals, securing the Golden Boot award in the process.