Liverpool: Mark Lawrenson doesn't expect Joao Carlos Teixeira to make the grade at Anfield

Liverpool signing Joao Carlos Teixeira is unlikely to force his way into Jurgen Klopp's first-team plans and will eventually be sold, according to Mark Lawrenson. The Sporting graduate, who has represented Portugal at every youth level, has made just four senior appearances since joining the Merseyside club in 2012 but provided an encouraging performance in the 3-0 victory over Exeter on Wednesday 20 January.

The Portuguese playmaker rounded off a 3-0 win with eight minutes remaining as the Reds booked their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Former Liverpool defender Lawrenson was impressed with the 23-year-old's performance, but fears with the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Adam Lallana vying for the No10 role, he is unlikely to force his way into Jurgen Klopp's plans.

"Teixeira has great ability, great ability, but he is another number 10," he said as a pundit on LFC TV, as reported by Inside Futbol. "He is in that position where we have Coutinho, Firmino and Lallana There is too many for him. He is not better than them and probably isn't going to be better than them. So eventually he'll probably end up getting sold."

After being held to a 2-2 draw at St James Park in their first meeting with Exeter which was forced to a replay, Liverpool enjoyed a far more comfortable evening on Wednesday (20 January). Joe Allen swept home from close range after 10 minutes to ease any nerves among another young side selected by Klopp.

Sheyi Ojo doubled their lead with a fine curling effort after 74 minutes after being threaded through by Jordon Ibe, before Texieira sealed the win on 82 minutes. Liverpool host West Ham United in their fourth round tie.