FA Cup snub could be the final straw at Liverpool for Pedro Chirivella

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Liverpool lost 2-0 to Chelsea in the FA Cup last night to end their chances of a treble. For one academy player, it could have the game in which he kissed goodbye to his Anfield career.

Spanish midfielder Pedro Chirivella was an unused substitute at Stamford Bridge and such a snub might signal the end of his time at Liverpool.

The 22-year-old will see his contract expire in the summer. After several strong showings in the domestic cups this season, it was thought that he might earn an extension.

Chirivella has been valued at £4 million in the past, according to the Liverpool Echo. It was reported by Goal in January that Nottingham Forest were keen to sign the youngster; although the Reds opted to keep him at Anfield.

Liverpool signed the central midfielder from Valencia in 2013 and back then he was tipped as a potential future star.

He has made just 11 first-team appearances, however, and a new contract doesn’t seem likely at this stage.

Having played in Liverpool’s previous three FA Cup matches and all three games in the Carabao Cup, last night’s team selection must have hurt Chirivella.

The man who played nine games for the Spain under-17s earlier in his career has earned rave reviews for his performances this season.

Kick-start

At 22, however, it’s time for Chirivella to be playing regular football. He has proved this season he is good enough and he should use the latest snub as inspiration to go and show Liverpool what they are missing out on.

Given his age, he wouldn’t be allowed to leave on a free, with Liverpool being owed some sort of compensation.

Chirivella plays the role of protecting the back four with aplomb and he will have no problems finding himself another club.

Liverpool’s exit from the FA Cup extinguished their domestic cup chances for the campaign.

For Chirivella, it might be the last time he gets kitted up for a first-team match as a Liverpool player.