Skrtel: Lovren will make us stronger
It's not just Liverpool who will benefit from the arrival of Dejan Lovren, according to Martin Skrtel – he believes the added competition can help bring out the best in him too.
The Croatia centre-back, a summer recruit from Southampton, made his debut against Borussia Dortmund on Sunday, lining up alongside the No.37 at the heart of the Reds rearguard.
With Daniel Agger, Mamadou Sakho, Kolo Toure and Sebastian Coates also in the defensive ranks, rivalry for places will be fierce - but it's a challenge Skrtel will relish tackling.
"Dejan Lovren had great season with Southampton and I am really happy that he is with us," he told his official website.
"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."