A number of Liverpool fans have been lauding the performance of youngster Joe Hardy ahead of Saturday's clash with Aston Villa, following an impressive showing for the Under-23s.

While the senior side are plotting to seek revenge for the 7-2 embarrassment at Villa Park, the Reds' youth team were facing Man City on Friday evening, with the two sides meeting in a Premier League 2 clash.

Unfortunately, Liverpool's young players were beaten 3-2 by their opponents, allowing them to pull further clear at the top of the table, while the Merseysiders sit fifth.

There was plenty to admire about the performance, however, not least from Hardy, who continues to catch the eyes at the club's academy.

The 22-year-old scored both of Liverpool's goals on the night, meaning he has now bagged a total of nine in 13 games for the U23s, having joined from Brentford in January 2020.

Liverpool fans laud Hardy's performance

It was a display that again outlined the potential that Hardy has in his boots, as he looks to kick on and further make the grade at Anfield.

These Liverpool supporters took to Twitter to provide their thoughts on the striker, with one even suggesting he be given minutes by Jurgen Klopp between now and the end of the season.

"JOE HARDY THE GOAT"

Credit: @ThePortugoat

"Hardy been great. His first goal was so well taken"

Credit: @CaroleAnne1487

"A really solid goalscorer Liverpool U23 has in Joe Hardy. Great anticipation, good composure, clinical finisher. 6 goals in 9 games this season, 9 in 13 for the U23s since signing. Probably won't make the first team, but could generate a nice fee to reinvest into the academy"

Credit: @MaaxiAngelo

"He needs a few cameos in our final games, then they'll come scrambling for him"

Credit: @pite12c

"Football League teams should be all over him. Verge of 23 and yet to taste any senior minutes aside from 8 minutes in the cup tie against Shrewsbury. Agree with the points you make and aside from the points you make, he’s a ridiculously hard worker. I like him"

"Joe hardy for Liverpool number 9 I say"

Credit: @_18Robbo92_

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been sticking up for an under-fire Reds player - find out who it is here.