Joe Gomez: Brendan Rodgers' trust in youngsters was key in Liverpool move from Charlton

Liverpool summer signing Joe Gomez has claimed Brendan Rodgers' trust in young players was one of the main reasons behind his decision to leave Charlton for Anfield.

The Merseysiders announced the arrival of the 18-year-old versatile defender on 20 June, paying £3.5m to the Championship side. This was part of a massive summer overhaul, which has also brought James Milner, Danny Ings, Adam Bogdan and Roberto Firmino to the club.

The England U19 international has admitted that it was tough to leave Charlton, but a meeting with the Liverpool manager convinced him to continue his development at Anfield.

"I met [Rodgers] and that was a defining factor. He was positive and has already shown he will give young players an opportunity. I thought carefully where would be the best place and give me the best chance to play – it was Liverpool," the defender said to the club's official website.

"I can understand Charlton fans wanting me to stay another year – that it would be best for me to develop – but I'm ambitious and want to keep learning. Going to Liverpool was hard to turn down."

Having only played 24 games for Charlton during the 2014-2015 campaign, some have suggested Rodgers may loan him out to get Premier League experience under his belt before giving him a chance at Anfield.

But Gomez has claimed that he is not afraid of the challenge and is ready for to fight for a place in Rodgers' first team line-up.

"I understand it is a massive club and a step up from where I've been playing. There are a lot more challenges but I'm going in with the aim to challenge for a place, regardless of age.

"I want to prove myself, take this opportunity with both hands and try to play. There is going to be a bigger spotlight but I've got to thrive under that and use it in a positive way."