Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that he could send Raheem Sterling on loan next season.
The 17-year-old is widely considered as one of the best prospects in England, and has impressed on the club's pre-season tour thusfar.
However, the newly-appointed Reds boss has claimed that the youngster could benefit from regular football.
"He is a talent, but he's not ready for the first team yet. One of the things I've done over my career is manage the expectation of young players and the reality is he is still very, very young," he told the club's official website.
"There are very few players in the world who get into a Premier League team at 17, never mind a top club.
"He has certainly shown qualities and we'll decide over the next few weeks whether he stays and he's involved now or if he goes for a loan period. That's a decision for me over the next few weeks."
Sterling joined Liverpool from Queens Park Rangers in 2010.