Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has stressed his desire to try and develop youngster Jordon Ibe to a top-class performer, but also feels that the process will require time.
The 19-year-old managed to impress during the Reds' tour of Asia and Australia this month, catching the manager's attention with his pace, footwork and shooting power.
Ibe's blistering form has been seen as a continuation of his progress over the course of the last season, first on loan at Championship side Derby County and then after being recalled, for his parent club.
Though the 42-year-old manager is impressed with what he has seen so far of the wideman, he is also of the opinion that further work needs to be done on the youngster to develop him into a world class player.
Rodgers also took time to reveal that at Anfield they are trying to create an environment that will help Ibe become a top class player.
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"It's year-on-year improvement", Rodgers told his club's official website.
"We mustn't forget he's still only 19. He broke into the team young and had some appearances. We felt he needed a loan, has gone out and did really well.
"Then when he came back last season he was exceptional in his performances. I think he really excites the supporters.
"He's definitely a player that we want to really create into a top-class performer, but we've got to give him that time and we're creating the environment for him to do that.
"You see how exciting he is, but he still has a lot of potential and work to do. He's one that certainly will feature heavily this year."
