Larouci ruled out of Liverpool’s clash with Shrewsbury through injury

Yasser Larouci is out of Liverpool’s FA Cup clash with Shrewsbury Town tonight, according to The Athletic’s James Pearce on Twitter.

The Algerian has been a doubt in the lead-up to the fourth round replay at Anfield and he hasn’t recovered from injury in time for the game.

A young Reds side managed by Neil Critchley will be looking to make it into round five, with Chelsea awaiting the winner at Stamford Bridge next.

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Larouci’s absence is a cruel blow for the 19-year-old, who could so easily have made his maiden senior start at Anfield, with Liverpool’s first-team players enjoying a winter break, opening up opportunities for youngsters.

I do think it gives Adam Lewis an excellent chance to shine, however, potentially coming in for his Liverpool debut. The former Under-18s captain’s progress has been stunted by injury, but he is an exciting player with a superb left foot.

Having both Lewis and Larouci at Liverpool’s academy bodes well for the future, and the pair will feel they have a chance of being a long-term deputy to Robertson.

Jurgen Klopp has given young players opportunities during his time as manager and there is no reason to suggest that won’t continue. The decision to not directly replace Alberto Moreno when he left for Villarreal is telling and that too could be something that shows how highly the club rate these youngsters.