Arne Slot urged Liverpool supporters not to get carried away after Federico Chiesa scored his first goal for the club in their 4-0 FA Cup third round win over Accrington Stanley.
Chiesa replaced Dominik Szoboszlai at half-time at Anfield on Saturday, making only his fifth appearance for the Reds since his move from Serie A side Juventus.
The Italy international put in an encouraging performance to score his first goal for Liverpool in the closing stages, sending a fine right-footed effort into the bottom left corner.
He had almost scored moments earlier when he saw his strike saved by visiting goalkeeper Billy Crellin, although the rebound fell kindly for substitute Jayden Danns to convert the 3-0.
Chiesa put more shots on target (six) than any of his teammates, while only Darwin Nunez (11) registered more touches in the Accrington penalty area than the Italian (six).
And with the games coming in quick succession, with Nottingham Forest next in the Premier League, Slot said Chiesa's return to the squad was important for the future.
“It's definitely a good first step, but as much as I like the way Accrington Stanley played, we have to bear in mind that we're talking about League Two level,” Slot said.
“It's good to have him back on the field. He was a threat, but let's not get carried away.”
It was also a special day for Rio Ngumoha, who at 16 years and 135 days became Liverpool's youngest ever player to play in the FA Cup.
Ngumoha had impressed that the Reds' academy players would have a shot at first-team football, and he repaid the faith Slot had shown in him.
The teenager attempted a game-high seven dribbles, three of which were completed, with only Kostas Tsimikas (14) appearing in more duels than Ngumoha (nine).
“He did well. There were a few moments where the fans could see why we think he is a talent. He is good in one-on-one situations,” Slot said on Ngumoha's display.
“He showed a little more in the first half than in the second half. It's nice to make your debut and get the win. It's a special day for him.”
Slot also praised Trent Alexander-Arnold, with the Real Madrid-linked full-back scoring a stunning goal to put Liverpool 2-0 ahead on the stroke of half-time.
Of the players to score five or more goals for Liverpool in all competitions in the Premier League era (since 1992-93), Alexander-Arnold now has the highest proportion of goals scored from outside the box (76% – 16/21).
“Trent didn't have his best game against Manchester United, but he has been so good for us for the rest of the season. I liked his performance today,” Slot said.
“Our fans have always given him a lot of support. One time he didn't play well, but the fans responded to it. If Trent just plays what we expect from him, then he will get support.”
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