Jan Molby believes Jordan Rossiter is going to be a top flight player for years to come, but insists he should be left alone to flourish away from the spotlight.
The legendary former Liverpool midfielder was impressed with the England Under-19s midfielder’s assured display in the Reds’ 1-1 draw in Bordeaux in the Europa League on Thursday.
The 18-year-old won praise from his boss Brendan Rodgers after his performance, saying he “acquitted” himself well and gained “invaluable experience”, and Molby is in no doubt the youngster can reach the very top.
'Jordan Rossiter is going to be a Premier League footballer'
Jan Molby
“Jordan Rossiter is going to be a Premier League footballer. The only question is how far he can take his career,” Molby told the Liverpool Echo.
“His performance against Bordeaux was very encouraging, not least as for most of the game he was acting as the senior member of a central midfield pairing alongside fellow 18-year-old Pedro Chirivella.
“But Rossiter still has some way to go. And that's why we shouldn't put any undue pressure on his shoulders.”
Molby, who won the First Division and FA Cup three times during his time at Anfield between 1984 and 1996, is adamant not to heap too much pressure on the teenager.
Jan Molby spent 12 years at Liverpool
“Just let him develop. He deserves to be given the time to bring on his game,” he added.
“He will make mistakes, that's what happens with young footballers. Liverpool just have to make sure he is given the chance to progress, because he has already shown he is capable of taking his opportunities when they arise.”
Reflecting on his first taste of European action, Rossiter said: "It was a tough test and I really enjoyed my European debut.
'I'm not going to get carried away with the performance, I know there are a lot of players to come back and I am still only young'
Jordan Rossiter
"I loved it out there. I've been working most of my time at the academy to try to push into the first team and I got my chance. Hopefully it comes again. Young players want to do well and we want to go that extra mile."
He continued: "To be honest I was a little bit nervous when I found out I was starting a few days ago but you just have to go out there and enjoy it and try your best - that is all you can do.
"I had to come off with a bit of cramp, which I'm disappointed about, but the manager said, 'great experience' and I can only take that forward and hopefully get better.
"I'm not going to get carried away with the performance, I know there are a lot of players to come back and I am still only young.
Jordan Rossiter scored on his senior debut against Middlesbrough last year
"I've just need to keep improving and if I get my chance again take it."
The only downside to Rossiter's evening was that his family could not join him at the Nouveau Stade de Bordeux and had to watch his European debut on television.
"With work commitments they couldn't get over but they are all made up for me," he added.
"When my dad and family used to take me to football throughout the years it is all for moments like this."
Rossiter, who scored on his senior debut for the club last season against Middlesbrough in the League Cup, will be hoping to be involved for this Sunday’s Premier League clash at home to Norwich City.
He represented his country at U19s level for the first time earlier in September as he helped the Young Lions to a 3-2 win in Germany and a 1-1 draw in Croatia.
