Jake Livermore showing the way for West Brom youngsters

Livermore’s call-up for friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy was met with raised eyebrows in some quarters, due to the 30-year-old’s indifferent form and his involvement in last month’s taxi-gate scandal.

When questioned, Southgate cited Livermore’s previous commitment to the cause while away on international duty as being the chief motivation behind to his decision.

Albion currently have four players, including midfielder Sam Field, away with England’s youth teams. Harrison believes Southgate has demonstrated to younger players the importance of having a good attitude

“I think that was a great message from Gareth Southgate, and I think it’s the message that we’re all trying to be consistent about in academy football in particular,” he added.

“It’s about attitude and mentality, which is what ultimately gets you across the line into the first team – especially when you’re a young footballer. It’s so easy to get carried away, and I think that was a fantastic message because you can see that Gareth Southgate is trying to create a culture there, the right type of culture. And I think that reflects the work that is going on not just in West Bromwich Albion’s academy, but other academies as well.

“It’s something that we’re very strong about – if you put the work in and you’re consistent about doing the work then hopefully you’ll get your rewards in the long-term.”

Albion have a total of seven youth players away on international duty, with a further four placed on standby.

Harrison believes the experience helps with development.

“I think we’ve always been very clear on our policy on internationals and players going away,” explained Harrison.

“We think it’s great for their development because they’ll be facing new experiences, as you can imagine, playing against different styles and players who will have a different psychological mentality, technical ability and understanding to them.

“And also it’s the cultural experiences as well. Going away to different countries, having to deal with different climates and travelling that comes with it.

“Dealing with all of those little challenges are all very important, and it seems to me that every time we’ve got an international break now we have players going all over the place.”

n Albion's home fixture with Liverpool next month has been subjected to another change with kick-off now pushed back to 4.30pm on Sunday April 22.

The match could still be switched to 12.30pm on Saturday, April 21, should the Reds reach the semi-finals of the Champions League.