Kuyt: We're right on track
Dirk Kuyt today insisted Liverpool's plans for the new season are firmly on track as the Reds build up to their second game of the summer against a Malaysia XI in Kuala Lumpur.
Kuyt and his teammates have been put through intense training sessions during their tour of Asia, and trained at the Bukit Jali Stadium again this morning after last night's work-out in front of over 37,000 screaming supporters.
This afternoon saw the players split off in different directions for commercial promotions, with Kuyt joining Charlie Adam, Martin Kelly and Jack Robinson at an adidas event inside a local store.
"We're working really hard over here and doing what we need to do to be ready for the new season," said Kuyt.
"It is hard because the conditions are difficult but we know how important it is. We had our first game the other night and although we won, we know we made some mistakes so it's important we keep putting the effort in now and I am sure we'll reap rewards when the season starts.
"All we can do is give our best, but we have the quality within the squad to win games and be successful. That's our aim."
The Reds are continuing to be overwhelmed by their welcome in Malaysia, which continued today as Kuyt and his teammates met with adidas competition winners and local media for a question and answer and autograph signing session in the city.
Although the store was open only to those lucky enough to have an invite, the floor outside was packed full of Malaysian Kopites desperate for an up close glimpse of their heroes.
"What we are seeing over here is just unbelievable," added Kuyt. "We went to Thailand and Singapore two years ago and that was incredible, and this is just the same.
"The fans are fantastic. They turned out in their thousands last night to watch us train which was great and everywhere we have been they have given us such a great reception. We have to thank them for that and hope we put on a good performance for them when we play on Saturday night."
One player likely to figure on Saturday is Martin Kelly, who is now back to full fitness after recovering from an injury which ruled him out of the second half of last season.
Also speaking at today's adidas event, Kelly insisted the players are all desperate to ensure they are in top condition ready for the start of the campaign.
"Pre-season is always hard but the lads are doing well. It's great to be out here doing this work among such great supporters."
Here are some great photos from today's event
