Following in the footsteps of its parent club, the Liverpool Reserves are one of the most successful reserve sides in English football history. They have claimed 20 League titles and in excess of 46 local cup competitions. However, although the Reserves play in hardened competition, it's primary purpose is to nurture talent emerging from the club's Academy. To this end, the Reserves are most notable for providing the first team with such legendary players as Billy Liddell, Phil Thompson, Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen, Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard. Prior to the development of the Reserves as the Liverpool Under 23 squad, the Reserves was also used to help provide first team players with game time, if they were failing to get it at first team level, or if they were returning from injury,