Jon Flanagan has welcomed the new defensive arrivals at Melwood during the summer, but pledged that he is more determined than ever to return to action and challenge for a place.

Filling in admirably for the injured Jose Enrique, the England international made 25 appearances as Liverpool came so close to winning the Barclays Premier League title during the 2013-14 campaign.

Flanagan is currently sidelined due to an injury sustained during the pre-season tour of America, and since then the backline has been strengthened with the capture of full-backs Javier Manquillo and Alberto Moreno.

However, Liverpool's No.38 has targeted a comeback in the near future as he strives to make a significant impression for Brendan Rodgers' team once again this term.

"I don't think it will be too long now and I think I should be back after the international break if all goes well," Flanagan told Liverpoolfc.com recently.

"It has been frustrating for me but I can't dwell on it. It was tough to pick up the injury in pre-season but I've just got to forget about that now and push on.

"It's going to be tough but I'm more determined than ever. It's a massive season for me and I just can't wait to get back now.

"There's a lot more competition for places, which is good for us. The manager has strengthened the squad with the new signings, so I've got to continue to work hard and then hopefully get a chance."