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Liverpool youngster Stefan Bajcetic admits he was surprised to be handed his first start in the Premier League against Chelsea.
Bajcetic, 18, broke into the first-team earlier this season after impressing Jurgen Klopp in training.
He has been handed more responsibility in recent weeks and is being viewed as a solution to Liverpool's recent struggles in midfield.
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After helping the Reds to a 1-0 win over Wolves in their FA Cup third round replay earlier this month, Bajcetic was named in the starting line-up for Saturday's Premier League match against Chelsea.
The Spanish midfielder put in a solid performance as Liverpool were held to a goalless draw at Anfield.
Bajcetic 'shocked' to start against Chelsea
Reflecting on his first Premier League start, Bajcetic admits he was surprised by the faith shown in him by Klopp in such an important fixture.
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"I found out [on Friday]. Obviously we prepare for the game the day before and I found out, I was a bit shocked," Bajcetic told Liverpool's website.
"I'm so happy to be here and to play and to help the team."
Responding to Klopp's claim that it was impossible to leave Bajcetic out after his impressive performance against Wolves, the midfielder added: "I didn't hear it but it's always a great feeling to hear the boss say that.
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"I'm just trying to give my best."
Bajcetic was satisfied with his own performance against Chelsea and believes a draw was a fair result, with both sides far from their best.
"Sometimes you felt like somebody will win. There were good moments, bad moments," he added.
"At the start of the second half, I think we were amazing, we were pressing, having the ball and having chances – but unluckily we didn't score and they had moments.
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"But I think it's a fair result and a great clean sheet for us."
Liverpool next face Brighton in the fourth round of the FA Cup on January 29 before taking on Wolves in the Premier League on February 4.
Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, Chelsea
Rory O'Callaghan