Shelvey keen to impress Dalglish

Jonjo Shelvey has set his sights on Liverpool’s starting XI after being recalled from his loan spell at Blackpool.

The 19-year-old impressed during his time in the Championship, but after midfielder Lucas was ruled out for the rest of the season and Jay Spearing picked up a three-match ban, he was bought back to Anfield to strengthen the midfield.

“I feel that the time I spent away from the club really helped me come on as a player,” Shelvey told the club’s official website.

“But it also made me realise just how much I want to be playing in Liverpool’s first team.”

“There’s a big difference between Championship football and Barclays Premier League football.”

“It’s so good to be back in and around the squad. I only got on for a few minutes on Saturday but it was really special to be back out there on the pitch in front of the fans. It’s always a great honour to play for Liverpool.”

“Kenny called me back and hopefully now I can show the gaffer what I can do. I’ve got to deliver day in, day out in training and try to force my way into his plans.”

Despite enjoying his time at Bloomfield Road, Shelvey has admitted that his future aspirations are to become an Anfield regular.

“I really enjoyed my time at Blackpool and it’s a great club,” he said.

“I formed a bond with their fans and I really hope they get promoted.”

“One or two of my performances were not all that but I scored a few goals for them and my game certainly improved.”

“Playing regularly meant I was able to get my match fitness up and now I’m back I want to keep playing.”

While the youngster sympathised with team-mates Lucas and Spearing, he admitted their absence gives him an opportunity to impress in the first team.

“Obviously it was really unfortunate for Lucas to get such a bad injury and then for Jay to get a ban as well,” he said.

“With a few players missing there’s definitely an opening there but it’s down to the gaffer whether he wants to pick me.”

“When my time comes I’ll be waiting and ready to take my chance.”