'I'm reaping rewards of SAS training'
It's often said that few things are more gruelling than SAS training.
Ask Simon Mignolet, who jogs out each morning knowing his gloves are about to be stung by the power of strikes from the Barclays Premier League's deadliest duo.
Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge have been in devastating form for Liverpool this season, netting 40 goals in all competitions between them.
Mignolet explained how facing the pair on a daily basis at Melwood has helped sharpen his reflexes and improve all aspects of his game.
"I had a difficult month, but you are going to get them as a football player," he told the Liverpool Echo. "You are never going to get everything go your way and you have to accept that.
"I didn't change anything. I just tried to stay focused and do the things I'm asked to do. As a 'keeper I just try to help the team out whenever I can.
"It's nice to work with Luis and Daniel day in day out as it makes you better as a 'keeper.
"We all know what they can do and it's unbelievable. I see that quality every day. When you are one against one with strikers of that quality you learn a lot of things."
Mignolet was powerless to prevent Liverpool from slipping to a 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns on Sunday.
Victor Anichebe pounced on a misplaced Kolo Toure pass to tuck the ball home and seal a point for the Baggies in the 67th minute; however, the home side could have levelled much earlier but for an instinctive stop from the Reds' No.22.
Gareth McAuley thought he had done enough when he towered above Liverpool's defence to connect with a driven corner, but Mignolet extended a powerful arm to push the ball clear.
Afterwards, the stopper refused to be downhearted about the result and instead focused on the positives of his side's progress this season.
"There's still too long to go in the season for us to be looking at our rivals for the top four," said Mignolet.
"We have to look at ourselves and make sure we do the things we want to do. We'll take the positives and negatives from West Brom and look forward to the next game.
"Unfortunately we didn't manage to get the three points but we're still in fourth position.
"We have to look forward and now we have a massive game at home next weekend. We have a whole week to prepare and ensure we are ready."
One man who will be determined to make his mark against the Gunners is Raheem Sterling, who turned in yet another determined display during the weekend's clash.
"The gaffer spoke the other day about how well Raheem is doing," said Mignolet. "He's very strong and very determined. Raheem wants to do well week in week out and long may that continue.
"There are a lot of young players battling to get in the England squad and he's certainly one of them."