Clarke on Kelly v Glen v Flanno
Steve Clarke says the competition between Glen Johnson, Martin Kelly and Jon Flanagan for position is great for the club.
England right-back Johnson is now fit following a spate of injuries but knows England U21 regular Kelly has been excellent in his absence.
And seniority does not guarantee a place on the teamsheet, according to Clarke.
"I don't think Glen would expect that and I don't think anybody would expect that," he told Liverpoolfc.tv.
"Martin has been in there for most of the season and has done a really good job. Glen knows he'll have to compete for that position and that's what you want, you want competition for every position on the pitch."
While Kelly and Johnson are the most senior players battling for a slot on the right side of Kenny Dalglish's defence, it should not be forgotten that 18-year-old Flanagan did a sterling job in that position at the end of last season.
The Academy product is also an England U21 regular and was handed a new contract by the club this summer.
Clarke's message to him is: "Just keep going, keep doing what you're doing, and make the most of the opportunities that come your way.
"Flanno has been excellent, he did a terrific job for the team at the end of last season, no one's forgotten that. He's a young boy and has plenty of time in front of him. His time will come."
Clarke on goal line technology
Clarke often played at full-back himself during a playing career which included 421 appearances for Chelsea, where he won the FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup.
He thinks the role has changed over the years.
"There has always been the capability to attack as a full-back, but in the modern game they're probably being used a little bit more than they were in my time when you were expected to do your defensive duties first.
"You're still expected to do the defensive duties but anything they can give you going forward is a bonus."
Meanwhile, Dirk Kuyt could play his 250th game for Liverpool against Norwich today.
Even at 31, the Dutch international is still one of the hardest working players in English football, and Clarke said: "He brings boundless energy and enthusiasm, and vital goals.
"Those have been his attributes as far back as I can remember him being here at Liverpool.
"Anyone looking at Dirk Kuyt would say that's the kind of effort and application you have to put into your team week in, week out, and if you can do that as a young player, all you have to work on after that is your qualities."