Lewis Koumas started for Liverpool once again in their Champions League win over Villarreal, with Ian Rush explaining what he's seen from his compatriot after his elevation to the first-team

Lewis Koumas has looked "absolutely fantastic" in training for Liverpool, according to Ian Rush, with the legendary Liverpool attacker admitting he's unsure about whether he is being used in his optimal role.

Koumas has been elevated into a regular first-team role so far this season, as the back-up striker behind Alexander Isak, with Hugo Ekitike out with a long-term injury. The Welshman has made nine appearances and scored one goal so far this season, and has been praised for his performance in the loss to Manchester City.

Speaking before the game, Rush said of Koumas, "He’s fantastic for Liverpool and Wales, he always gives 100% in every game. I saw in pre-season that he was absolutely fantastic. I watched him in training.

Rush does believe that Koumas is being used out of position, being too slight to play the number nine role, previously being used in attacking midfield or from the left.

He added, "I wouldn’t say he’s a No.9, because he doesn't get hold of the ball that much. He works so hard for the team, he’s well worth his place."

Koumas is unlikely to continue playing in that role once Ekitike returns, or at least will be demoted to third choice in the pecking order.

Ekitike had been a revelation when he came into the team last season before sustaining a brutal Achilles tendon tear, which is likely to rule him out for close to a year.

Ekitike looked to be an improvement over Isak last season, with the Swedish striker now firing on all cylinders for Liverpool with a strong start this season.

But until the Frenchman returns, Koumas is sure to be given further chances in the team, with Isak frequently missing time through injury.

Liverpool has a multitude of options in attacking midfield, including Florian Wirtz, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Alexis Mac Allister.

And many fans will hope to see ascending teenager Will Wright be given his chance in the first team, becoming the Reds' youth team captain while continuing to score and impress.

Wright is yet to appear for the first time, but could get his chance should Ekitike remain out into the latter months of the season.

For now, Koumas will look to continue to take his chances and add to his goal tally.