Le Tallec pleased with progress

The French youngster has featured as a substitute in Liverpool's last five Premiership games and made his debut in the Uefa Cup tie with Olimpija Ljubljana.

The 19-year-old is happy at how things have gone since arriving at Anfield in the summer and he believes his versatility has helped him a lot.

"When I arrived, my goal was to feature among the 16 players called up for the (first team) games and that has been the case since the first match against Chelsea," Le Tallec told L'Equipe.

"He (Gerard Houllier) says I can play in the midfield, up front, in the middle or on the wings. I think it is a reason for my regular presence in the squad."

France Under-21 coach Raymond Domenech was not convinced with Le Tallec's decision to move to Liverpool claiming it may harm his international chances, but the skilful midfielder has held onto his place in the French team.

"It had been said that if I was going to Liverpool, I could give up any hope with the national team. But today, I have both, Liverpool and the French team. I'm a winner," added Le Tallec.