Liverpool full-back Jon Flanagan has thanked the Liverpool faithful for their standing ovation upon his return to action after 20 months out with injury.

The 23-year-old received a warm reception from the crowd at Anfield when he was substituted on in the 51st minute of the Reds' FA Cup win over Exeter last week, having not featured for the first team since May 2014.

"It was just a brilliant reception," Flanagan told The Times. "I wasn't expecting that and it hit home that the fans are all behind me. It was a bit emotional for me but it was a great feeling."

Flanagan has also received support from manager Jurgen Klopp, who embraced the youngster when he came off after 15 minutes of extra time in the match against Stoke City in the League Cup in midweek.

"Seeing the manager's reaction was brilliant," he added. "A manager like him and he recognises the struggle I have been through, a nice gesture like that is just brilliant for me and keeps me upbeat. I got through OK but I was stiff the day after."

Flanagan could feature for Liverpool again today as they welcome West Ham United to Anfield in the fourth round of the FA Cup.