He played his first match in the competition, completing Liverpool's game against PSV Eindhoven.
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Despite a 3-2 loss, Liverpool secured top spot in the league-phase standings and automatic qualification to the last 16, with McConnell delighted the coach gave him the chance to play.
Post-game, youngster McConnell said: "It was a really proud moment to start the game and I was really excited.
"I think the boss has put faith in a lot of young lads tonight thanks to the work that all the senior lads have done over the course of the season to put us in such a good position.
"I'm really grateful to the boss and you've just got to try to take the opportunity when it comes to you, even if it was a tough game like that."