Tyler Morton thinks Liverpool's youngsters will benefit greatly from the clash with Strasbourg at Anfield on Sunday.
Morton was joined by Harvey Davies, Luke Chambers, Stefan Bajcetic, Isaac Mabaya and Melkamu Frauendorf in the starting XI as Liverpool went down 3-0.
"It's a massive learning curve for us youngsters," Morton told the club's website.
"I'm really proud of everyone because they're not just my teammates, they're my friends. It's nice to see them out on Anfield and share the pitch with them."
Asked if the game was a reminder of the level that is required, Morton added: "Definitely. That's what we need to learn, especially the lads making their debuts and the lads that are coming through because it's completely different to youth team footie.
"It's ruthless at the end of the day, no matter how much possession you've got it doesn't mean you're going to win the game. They had a clear set-up and you can tell they're clear professionals, so we have to appreciate that sometimes."