Tuesday, 12th August, 2014
Liverpool’s Martin Skrtel has insisted that the arrival of fellow centre-back Dejan Lovren will make the Merseyside giants a stronger outfit.
The Croatian international, who joined the Reds from Southampton this summer, enjoyed a memorable debut as he scored in Liverpool’s 4-0 win over German heavyweights Borussia Dortmund in a pre-season friendly at the weekend.
Apart from Skrtel and Lovren, Liverpool also have Daniel Agger, Mamadou Sakho, Kolo Toure and Sebastian Coates as central-defensive options in their ranks.
And Skrtel, who admitted competition for places will be fierce, however explained that he is relishing the challenge and also underlined the importance of a deeper squad due to the Anfield club’s participation in the Champions League this season.
"Dejan Lovren had great season with Southampton and I am really happy that he is with us", the Slovakian told his club’s official site.
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"We all need competition because that is what keeps you motivated. He will make us stronger, so I really welcome his arrival – and it will only make me work harder.
"Liverpool is not only about 11 players. We will have many games this season, so every player will be important."
Lovren, who joined Southampton from Lyon last summer, made 31 appearances in all competitions for the Saints, scoring twice.
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