Liverpool U23 stars Curtis Jones, Nathaniel Phillips and Rafael Camacho have left an impression on Jurgen Klopp, says coach

Curtis Jones, Nathaniel Phillips and Rafael Camacho have given Jurgen Klopp plenty to consider with their impressive pre-season performances for Liverpool.

That is the view of the club's U23s manager Neil Critchley, who believes the trio have benefited from an academy culture that strives to instil good habits both on and off the pitch.

In the absence of a number of World Cup stars, Jones, Phillips and Camacho were called up into the senior squad for the start of preparations for the 2018-19 campaign.

All three players subsequently secured a place on the Reds' tour of the United States, and earned praise from Klopp for their contributions during the trip.

Asked about the strides they have taken, Critchley said: "They have given the manager something to think about in a positive way.

"Now, whether that's enough for them to get into the squad or start in the short-term, maybe not.

"But if that situation arises during the season the manager will remember the good impression they made. Those three boys have made a start."

Liverpool's academy suffered the loss of U18s boss Steven Gerrard this summer, the former club captain departing for Rangers along with coaches Michael Beale and Tommy Culshaw.

That move has resulted in Barry Lewtas stepping up from the U16 age group, but there have been no other sweeping changes – much to Critchley's delight.

He added: "I think it's a strength of ours that there are consistent messages. For the boys coming up, it's important that they know what we stand for, what the culture is like here.

"We talk about creating habits they'll have the rest of their career, whether that's here or somewhere else.

"They have to know where the boundaries are – what's acceptable and what's not acceptable, on and off the pitch.

"If they get the opportunity to go to the first team like Nat, Curtis and Rafa have had their character and personality is just as important as their football ability.

"The manager expects them to be good players but he doesn't know what kind of people they are until they walk into Melwood.

"It's clear that the way the first team is and the way the manager is, if you aren't the right type of person, you won't last.

"Those boys have gone there and acquitted themselves well on and off the pitch which is really important."

Liverpool U23s face Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Friday, August 17, with tickets priced at £3 for adults and £1 for children and available from the ticket office until 5pm on matchday.