Liverpool U21 coach Alex Inglethorpe is determined to bring through the club's next local hero.

Ingethorpe admits he's on a mission to kick-start a home-grown conveyor belt which produced players of the calibre of Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen, Steve McManaman, Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard.

"There is so much history and tradition here and local players have always been a cornerstone of Liverpool's success. They've been the lifeblood of the club," he told liverpoolfc.com.

"I recognise there's still room for a Raheem and the club have done well recruiting the best young talent. That side of it is very healthy but it's vital we bring through home-grown players.

"They are the ones supporters identify with the most. Those who come through the ranks and devote their career to one club are the ones who are afforded the legendary status.

"My job is to develop players to have a career here and I would happily come bottom of the reserve league if we sent the next Steven Gerrard to Melwood.

"For us to have young talent from within the area is everything for us. I'm desperate for that one player who can go on to become an iconic figure at Liverpool in the way that Steven Gerrard or Jamie Carragher have done."