The season may be done and dusted with Liverpool finishing in fifth place, with much to improve on next term.
But there are reasons for hope and optimism, particularly when it comes to the team’s younger generation.
In the past, the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, with his fine array of free-kicks, crosses and assists have dazzled the Kop.
As well as Curtis Jones, who leapt onto the scene in the FA Cup with a stunner against Everton a few seasons ago, and has since cemented his place in Jurgen Klopp’s midfield in recent weeks.
The departures of stalwarts James Milner, Bobby Firmino and to some extent Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keïta has left holes in the team’s midfield.
Of course, it looks very likely that the boss will dip into the transfer market to replace such stars.
But could he take a leaf out of his own book, and even past managers in Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley, Kenny Dalglish, and Gérard Houllier by dipping into Liverpool’s famous academy for the next Steven Gerrard’s and Jamie Carragher’s.
Stefan Bajčetić
This 18-year-old from Vigo in Spain has been nothing short of a revelation this season for Liverpool.
So, although he has broken into the first team during the mid-way point of the year, the question is whether he can replicate it next season.
Particularly, after missing the final two months of the season with an abductor injury.
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New signings will put his place in the starting line up under threat, but the youngster more than has the potential to claim it back.
Fans, pundits, the boss and his fellow teammates were all impressed his work rate, tackling, speed, passing ability.
He looks like he has been born out of Barcelona and their famous academy, so if he continues to improve, the main problem for Liverpool is keeping such an extraordinary talent.
Tyler Morton
This 20-year-old midfielder has already had a taste of first team action as well.
He started two Champions League games against the likes of FC Porto and AC Milan the season before last.
Such experience can only stand him in good stead going forward.
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Klopp has also shown a lot faith in Morton, Bajčetić, Jones, Alexander-Arnold and all his youngsters.
As well as being careful not to overplay them and put too much pressure on them.
Morton could well become a vital player in the future, and the next couple of years could well be crucial in his development.
Kaide Gordon
An exciting right-winger that arrived from Derby County, after the club saw off stiff competition from other top Premier League teams.
Still only 18 now, last season he came to the fore when he scored on his Anfield debut in the FA Cup against Shrewsbury.
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In doing so, he became the club’s youngest goalscorer in the competition.
He has not been seen much in a Reds shirt in the 22-23 season, but surely hopes are high he will be blooded more into the first team next semester.
Bobby Clark
Another attacking midfielder, and after the exodus in the middle of the park after the departures of Keïta, Milner and Ox, Clark should be looking to capitalise next season.
The 18-year-old is the son of former Newcastle player, Lee Clark, so he is in the best possible hands, as far as fatherly advice is concerned.
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He scored on his under 18’s debut in a 3-3 draw with Nottingham Forest last year and has occasionally been involved in Klopp’s Premier League matchday squads.
Certainly, one to keep an eye on in the years to come.
Ben Doak
Having arrived from Celtic last year for just £600,000, hopes are high within the club that this boy will one day be something special.
Playing as a striker, he has already featured in the U18, U19, U21s and the first team last season.
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He made his debut in the Carabao Cup against Derby, so he is building vital experience at all levels.
And right now, the 17-year-old is one of, if not the highest searched player in the Academy.
Only time will tell if he is as good as everyone says.
