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Dirk Kuyt Credits Kenny Dalglish for Giving Confidence to Liverpool’s Younger Players

Kenny Dalglish has been receiving high praise from his players, and has been credited as one of the main reasons for boosting the team’s performance in the second half of the season. Liverpool’s new boss is not only helping the current team succeed, he’s also developing the Reds’ young prospects into stronger players.

Reds striker Dirk Kuyt recently called in to BBC Radio Merseyside, praising Dalglish for his impact on the younger players within the club, BBC Sport reports.

“He gives great confidence to players,” Kuyt said. “Especially to the younger players who come in. If you can give confidence to younger players as a manager, then that’s a great plus.”

Since some of the Reds’ veteran players are currently out with injury, Dalglish has looked to his younger players to step up, and he’s given them the confidence to do so. In the past week, John Flanagan and Jack Robinson debuted for Liverpool, in addition to Liverpool native Jay Spearing. Another local, Martin Kelly, saw great success under Dalglish’s tutelage until an unfortunate injury forced him to the sidelines.

Kuyt says he’s impressed with how well the club’s youngster’s have stepped up against some of the league’s toughest competitors.

“John Flanagan had to play on Monday night at right-back against Manchester City,” Kuyt said. “And, against Arsenal on Sunday, it was Jack Robinson at left-back after Fabio Aurelio‘s injury. He came on and he played perfectly.”

Liverpool’s match against Arsenal on Sunday resulted in a draw, keeping them in battle for Europa League contention. The Reds are currently four points behind Tottenham, and seven points behind Manchester City.