Aussie teenager Brad Smith makes his EPL debut for Liverpool in 2-1 loss to Chelsea

HE will want to forget the result - but Australian-born Brad Smith's debut for Liverpool is one he will always remember.

In results terms, it wasn't a great start - but as debuts go, Australian born teenager Brad Smith couldn't have asked for more than a headline-grabbing Premier League clash between Liverpool and Chelsea.

After being named on the bench for the Boxing Day game against Manchester City, the 19-year-old left back got his first taste of EPL football overnight, coming on as a substitute for injured Reds midfielder Joe Allen on the hour mark. The highly rated youngster was thrown into the thick of the action but couldn't stop his side losing 2-1 to a determined and aggressive Chelsea side.

News_Rich_Media: Highlights of Chelsea's 2-1 win over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's Aussie goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer watched Smith's cameo from the sideline, and was full of praise for the youngster.

"He looked very very sharp," the retired Socceroo told Fox Sports.

"He didn't look out of place. He fit in very well.

"It will be interesting to see him start a game.

Smith follows in the footsteps of a line of talented Australians at the Anfield club, including Craig Johnston, Harry Kewell and current reserve goalkeeper Brad Jones - even if his playing allegiance is still undecided.

Smith left Australia aged 14 and has represented England u17s at the youth European Championships and World Cup.

But as reported on Fox Sports recently, Football Federation Australia are still interested in pursuing the Penrith product to play for Australia, with Socceroos boss Ange Postecoglou keen to discuss his future when he's in Europe in February.

Schwarzer said Smith's heart will provide the best answer as to where his allegiance lies.

"It looks like he's got a lot of potential," Schwarzer said.

"The kid should make the decision based on what he thinks in his heart.

"You'd like to think he feels very much Australian."