Liverpool progressed to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Youth League after beating Manchester United 2-0 on Wednesday.

Captain Ben Woodburn opened the scoring with a header in the 11th minute before substitute Rafael Camacho, who replaced Nigerian-born winger Bobby Adekanye, broke the Red Devils hearts with a second goal on 78 minutes.

Prior to Adekanye's replacement in the 71st minute, he was arguably the best player on both teams and it was shocking he had to sub out with Liverpool chasing a second goal.

But Liverpool have now explained why the Netherlands youth international was substituted through their official website: ''Camacho appeared as a replacement for the impressive Bobby Adekanye, who had to leave the field after suffering from cramp.''

Adekanye is the top scorer of Nigerian descent in this season's UEFA Youth League, with three goals from seven appearances.

The 19-year-old arrived the Anfield outfit from Barcelona in July 2015.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel