Liverpool: Danny Ings hails 'massive achievement' ahead of imminent Anfield switch

Danny Ings has spoken positively regarding his imminent move to Liverpool, describing the switch as a "massive achievement" that has been made even more remarkable by the striker's humble career trajectory.

The 22-year-old began as a professional in the Football League with Bournemouth and spent time on loan with Southern League outfit Dorchester Town before following manager Eddie Howe to Burnley in 2011.

Two serious knee injuries threatened to limit Ings' impact at Turf Moor, but he recovered sufficiently to perform a starting role for Sean Dyche's side two seasons ago as they secured promotion to the Premier League for the first time in four years.

A respectable record of 11 goals in 35 top-flight appearances then attracted significant attention from both Liverpool and Tottenham, according to The Telegraph, with the former confirming they had finalised a deal earlier this month.

A suitable compensation package has yet to be agreed and the matter could yet be settled at a tribunal.

"Words can't describe it. It is a massive achievement for me and my family. It is a challenge that I am really looking forward to," Ings, who will officially join his new employers on July 1, was quoted as saying by The Mirror.

"I am here with England U21s at the moment and this is my main focus, but when pre-season comes along I will get my head down and work hard to be the best I can be. I've worked my way from the bottom so it is even more special for me.

"It is a challenge I am looking forward to. I never get complacent with anything like that and now I've got that move I will work even harder to try and get into that team and be the best professional I can be."

Ings has featured as a substitute in both of England's opening fixtures at the European Under-21 Championship in the Czech Republic.

The young Lions were narrowly beaten by Portugal in their Group B opener last week, but significantly boosted their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals on Sunday evening (21 June) as a late strike from Manchester United's Jesse Lingard secured a tense 1-0 victory over Sweden.