“His game-playing experience is invaluable,” Gardiner remarked. “Transmitting what you learn from playing the game to the players requires a unique set of skills.

With his education and the coaching sessions he offers, it’s incredible to see how far he’s gone in a short period of time.

He still plays and receives minutes, and he has a great future ahead of him where he is in the coaching hierarchy. He is incredibly useful to all of the staff and players.

Sam Inwood, who in April earned his first professional contract, has recently put up some impressive displays for the B Team.

Although the adaptable defender is capable of making an influence on the game from both ends of the field, Gardiner is also eager to hone his leadership abilities.

“Sam trains with the B Team every day, and the Under-18s make up his game time,” he continued.

He played for his B Team, was a member of the Youth Cup squad, and has occasionally been in and around the main team.

“I believe he is learning a lot from some of the more seasoned players off the field, and he is incorporating that knowledge into his play now.”

Charlie Hayes-Green, who recently joined the Whites, has also been adjusting over the last several months.

The center defense played frequently for Liverpool’s Under-18 team throughout his 12-year affiliation with the club.

Charlie is developing on and off the field, according to Gardiner. “It took a while to get back into full-time training after missing so much time due to injury.”

“Either as a back three or a four, his performances have really improved with every game. He played against Blackburn earlier this month, and I thought he was excellent.

“Now that he has a solid foundation to work from, he can see what life is like after Christmas and how far he can advance.”