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Liverpool sign winger Ryan Kent to new long-term deal

Ryan Kent has signed a new long-term contract at Liverpool, the Merseyside club have confirmed.

Kent, 20, featured in seven of Liverpool's eight preseason friendlies this summer and was singled out for praise by manager Jurgen Klopp for his development.

The winger spent the 2016-17 campaign on loan at Barnsley in the Championship and was named their young player of the season.

He made 47 appearances for Barnsley and also had a temporary stint with Coventry City during the 2015-16 season.

Speaking after the new contract was announced on Thursday, Kent told Liverpool's official website: "It's a big achievement.

"It's pay off for all the hard work that's been put in over the last few years, so it's a big achievement for me, my mum, my dad, my family and friends that have been with me throughout this big journey. I'm looking forward to kicking on in the future now.

"It was an easy decision. I am with a manager here that is willing to play young players and invest his time into my progression as a player.

"Liverpool has the right foundations to make me a good player in the future."

The England Under-20 international has made one competitive appearance for Liverpool's first team, coming on in an FA Cup third-round tie with Exeter City in January 2016.