[Mighty T.A.L.]

Heighway: These are best I've worked with

Steve Heighway has declared Liverpool's class of 2007 the best youth side he's ever worked with.

The departing Academy boss, who officially announced his retirement at Old Trafford last night, has nurtured the likes of Michael Owen, Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher through the ranks.

And after watching his latest crop of under-18s triumph against Manchester United, he spoke of his confidence that the Reds have plenty more potential stars of the future.

"I think this is the best bunch of boys I've ever worked with," said Heighway. "That's the 16th consecutive match we've played in knockout football. You only have to lose one and you're gone, so to do what they've done is just fantastic.

"In Jay Spearing I've got someone with whom I'd trust my life. Same with Stephen Darby, Robbie Threlfall and Michael Burns. For lads of average size, they are fantastic people and fantastic players. I'm convinced Spearing could play at a much higher level, and I'm convinced he could do it now."

While Liverpool's victory came in a dramatic penalty shoot-out, Heighway revealed that he actually asked United boss Paul McGuiness to share the trophy with two minutes to go.

"Penalty shoot-outs are a bit of a sideshow – the game was a draw," said the Kop legend. "I actually went up to Paul with two minutes to go and asked him if we should share it! We just laughed. His nerves were on edge, like all of ours were.

"Our boys showed a lot of maturity when the spot kicks came. We left them to it, they decided between themselves who'd take them, then just bombed them in.

"It was a terrific night, so dramatic, and all in front of a great crowd."

On what the future now holds for Steve Heighway - and whether the players will throw him a leaving party - the 59-year-old added: "I hope not, I don't react well to surprises!

"No, I don't know what the future holds just yet, we'll have to wait and see. It was just very special to be with these lads again one last time. I am sad but it's my choice to do what I'm doing."

Source: Liverpoolfc.tv: Official Web Site