Cup-specialist Chirivella set for pastures anew

With the singular goal of securing regular, first team football, Pedro Chirivella will receive well-wishes upon his departure to France.

Acquired from Valencia's youth academy in the summer of 2013, a 15 year-old Pedro Chirivella would have shared the same ambitions for himself as his new club: to progress to a point where he might contribute to the first team. Though, despite a promotion to the senior squad over five years ago, this reality has never truly formalised.

Steady, regular appearances for the club at under 18 and 23 levels looked likely to cap the apex of Chirivella's Liverpool career. However, this current campaign has seen that change.

Following Liverpool's European triumphs last season and the commitments that have ensued, coach Jurgen Klopp has found himself with a stretched squad more than once this past year. With this being the case, the German has opted to heavily prioritise the focus of his first-team to the typically preferred Champions and Premier Leagues, as well as the Club World Cup in Qatar this past December.

Despite public outcry, lauding his weakened selections for FA and League Cup fixtures as 'disrespectful', several of Klopp's squad made the most of opportunities provided by the absence of more established players.

Chirivella especially.

A stellar outing against Everton in an FA Cup third-round derby win would prove the Spaniard's standout performance for his club. In a dominant display, the marauding midfielder reclaimed possession countless times in defensive areas, whilst also displaying the kind of pressing play that so often brings Anfield to its feet.

The 23 year-old might also be remembered for his role in a league cup match against Aston Villa. In a squad packed with youngsters, Chirivella donned the famed captain's armband worn by the likes of Steven Gerrard, Robbie Fowler and Kenny Dalglish; attributing a new meaning to the 'magic of the cup'.

Chirivella has certainly earned some amount of Liverpool prestige through his handful of appearances in cup competitions this campaign. None more so than in inflicting an embarrassing defeat upon the club's blue neighbours.

And though he may not go down in the Liverpool history books, Chirivella's commendable efforts will certainly be remembered.

I'm sure Liverpool fans will be rooting for this soon to be former Red, ahead of a Summer move to Ligue 1's Nantes upon the expiry of his contract.