 IF THE brains behind Liverpool's coaching team are found in the manager's office, Paco Herrera was once described in Spain as 'the eyes of Rafa Benitez'. Herrera is one of Benitez's most trusted lieutenants, but his low public profile belies his importance to a future Anfield resurgence. Initially employed for his scouting expertise, the former Merida, Albacete and Numancia manager has seen his portfolio expand since the start of this season. Benitez was unimpressed with the performance of his reserves last season and appointed Herrera as co-manager of the second string, alongside Hugh McAuley. In doing so, he also gave Herrera a mandate to sign his own youth players and effectively create a second under-18 squad at Melwood, independent from the one performing in the Academy League. Six teenagers have arrived this season, and more are likely to follow as part of a policy Herrera describes as a 'necessary risk' to ensure Liverpool aren't found wanting when it comes to attracting the best youngsters from around the world. A cynic may suggest these steps reflect on an ongoing suspicion the Academy isn't producing enough quality considering an estimated £25m has been invested in Kirkby since 1999. The diplomatic view emphasised by Herrera, however, is his work is assisting rather than undermining the existing youth recruitment structure. "On my business card it says 'scouting and coaching', but at the moment I manage the reserves with Hugh McAuley and share the role of chief scout with Frank McParland. It's a 50-50 split," explains Herrera, who first met Benitez 20 years ago. "Half of last season Rafa employed me as a first team coach, but for the second half of the season he wanted me in the scouting department. "Now he wants me involved in the reserves. I look at players from countries around the world, and want to expand the department so we have a database of youngsters, particularly in England. "We're putting an emphasis on recruiting the most talented youngsters in this country. We're doing well already, I feel. "In terms of this youth policy, you can see evidence of what we're trying to do by the age of our reserve team. | 
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