Hot-shot eyes more cup goals

Kristjan Emilsson believes his FA Youth Cup heroics against Crystal Palace illustrates the development he has made in just over a year at Liverpool.

The Icelandic forward came off the bench to net twice in the young Reds' fourth round success over the Eagles back in January and Emilsson feels it is evidence of the positive influence Rodolfo Borrell and co have had on his game.

"Last year I made a big move for someone so young, but I was ready to take the chance and here I am," he told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"I've definitely improved since I came here. I've adapted to how the coaches want me to play. I've also got stronger by doing gym sessions three times a week, that has improved my strength. Hopefully I am now seeing the rewards."

It was the introduction of Emilsson that eventually saw Liverpool's young guns storm back from a one goal deficit to secure a 3-1 win after extra-time, thus setting up a fifth round meeting with Southend.

The Icelandic starlet's double not only put the Reds on the road to victory, but also saw him realise a dream of scoring in front the Kop - twice.

"Scoring in front of the Kop is a great feeling," he said with a grin.

"At half-time that day we were losing and Rodolfo told us to keep our heads up and we'd get chances. We just had to make sure we took those chances.

"At the end of the first half they told me to go warm up. I knew I'd be coming on then.

"I thought it was going to be one of those games where you have lots of chances and the opposition have one but score from it. Even in extra time the same thing nearly happened. We had lots of chances and they had just one. If they had taken that the game could have finished 2-2 and went to penalties. Thankfully they missed and we got another goal to make sure of the win."

Liverpool entertain Southend in Monday's fifth round encounter hoping to book a potential last eight showdown with Manchester United and Emilsson admits there is a strong feeling in the camp that they can go far in this season's competition.

"There is a lot of belief in the squad," he said.

"But we just have to focus on this next game. I didn't know a lot about the Youth Cup before I came here. When I signed everyone told me about it and it's a great competition to play in. Hopefully there will be a lot more games to enjoy in the months ahead."