Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson has backed Tom Lawrence to deliver the goods for the Foxes after spending time away from the club.

Lawrence, who was signed from Manchester United in the summer, recently returned from a loan spell at Rotherham United, and Pearson is ready to put his faith in the 20-year-old striker ahead of the meeting with Liverpool on New Year's Day.

"Now Tom has had some experience on loan it benefits him and us, and he will be under consideration for Liverpool without a doubt," the Leicester boss told reporters.

"That is the challenge for young players. It is not about the managers saying 'it's an opportunity'. It's about whether players recognise it and are able to grasp that opportunity when it comes along.

"That is one of the key elements to players fulfilling their potential. You have to have tolerance of inconsistencies in young players."

Leicester have managed to score just 17 goals in 19 games this season.