Downing joined the Reds from Aston Villa this summer and has started in each of their two league matches against Sunderland and Arsenal.
Kenny Dalglish's side have made a number of signings during the transfer window including those of Doni, Charlie Adam and Jose Enrique, and Downing says that all of the newcomers get along well with those who were already present in the team.
"There's a good mix of lads, young and old, English lads and foreign lads," the 27-year-old told Liverpool's official website. "We all get on very well, which helps a lot.
"Team spirit is a massive part of football and I sensed that straight away. The lads are really close and I think that helps on the pitch. It's showing in our performances.
"I'm very excited about what we could achieve this season. With the squad we have now, you can see there's a lot of quality, even on the bench.
"There are people who aren't getting picked who are top players. For the manager it's probably a headache but one he'd like."
Positive start
The Reds have made a positive start to the league campaign, drawing 1-1 with Sunderland in their opening game and then defeating Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates last weekend.
Downing is confident that they can earn a similar positive result against Bolton on Saturday evening but urges caution.
"We've got to make Anfield a cauldron, a hard place to come," he explained. "I thought we played very well against Sunderland, especially the first half.
"But at Arsenal it was a very good team performance. We have to build on that. It'll be tough. I watched Bolton against Man City and they played very well. They were unlucky not to get something.
"They pass it around a lot now. He (Owen Coyle) has brought Tuncay in who I played with at Middlesbrough.
"He's a very good footballer, and Eagles is a good winger. Their style of play is to get it down, pass the ball and get it wide - similar to how we play, a little bit. I think it will be a good game of football."
Aquilani off to AC
The Italy international has headed home after struggling to make an impact at Anfield.
He drifted in and out of the side during his first season in England and spent the 2010/11 campaign with Juventus.
The 27-year-old will take in a similar spell this year, with AC Milan having agreed a deal to return him to Serie A.
Aquilani was in Milan on Thursday to undergo a medical and expressed his delight at being given the opportunity to join such an illustrious club.
Should he successfully pass all of the tests carried out by the Rossoneri, a deal is in place to take him to Giuseppe Meazza.
Tribute
The agreement reached between the Reds and AC Milan includes the option for the move to be made permanent next summer.
Liverpool's director of football Damien Comolli told his club's official website: "I want to pay tribute to the way Alberto has conducted himself during these discussions.
"Throughout the entire process, his only desire has been to play football and he has put this ahead of any other considerations and at personal cost to himself.
"We wish him well for the season ahead."
He drifted in and out of the side during his first season in England and spent the 2010/11 campaign with Juventus.
The 27-year-old will take in a similar spell this year, with AC Milan having agreed a deal to return him to Serie A.
Aquilani was in Milan on Thursday to undergo a medical and expressed his delight at being given the opportunity to join such an illustrious club.
Should he successfully pass all of the tests carried out by the Rossoneri, a deal is in place to take him to Giuseppe Meazza.
Tribute
The agreement reached between the Reds and AC Milan includes the option for the move to be made permanent next summer.
Liverpool's director of football Damien Comolli told his club's official website: "I want to pay tribute to the way Alberto has conducted himself during these discussions.
"Throughout the entire process, his only desire has been to play football and he has put this ahead of any other considerations and at personal cost to himself.
"We wish him well for the season ahead."
Dalglish welcomes disclosure
Until now, ministers have failed to officially support calls for all the reports about the 1989 tragedy, in which 96 Liverpool fans died, to be made public.
But after an online petition gained 100,000 signatories, a Cabinet Office statement has confirmed the Government is happy for there to be full public disclosure of all papers the Hillsborough Independent Panel believe should be released.
"It is fantastic news for the families," said Dalglish, who was in his first spell as Reds manager when the disaster occurred and returned to the post this year.
"I think this isn't a political issue - it is a humanitarian one, so at least common sense has prevailed.
"(Labour MP) Andy Burnham deserves a hell of a lot of credit for what he has done. He pushed it forward two years ago and he has stuck to his word and delivered it as best he possibly could.
"Everything is looking positive for the families and everybody, irrespective of what team they support, has made a massive contribution towards the success they are having at the moment.
"Long may it continue because it was Liverpool, but it could have been any football club and I think people respect that."
But after an online petition gained 100,000 signatories, a Cabinet Office statement has confirmed the Government is happy for there to be full public disclosure of all papers the Hillsborough Independent Panel believe should be released.
"It is fantastic news for the families," said Dalglish, who was in his first spell as Reds manager when the disaster occurred and returned to the post this year.
"I think this isn't a political issue - it is a humanitarian one, so at least common sense has prevailed.
"(Labour MP) Andy Burnham deserves a hell of a lot of credit for what he has done. He pushed it forward two years ago and he has stuck to his word and delivered it as best he possibly could.
"Everything is looking positive for the families and everybody, irrespective of what team they support, has made a massive contribution towards the success they are having at the moment.
"Long may it continue because it was Liverpool, but it could have been any football club and I think people respect that."
Suarez's form pleases Kenny
The Uruguay international made it three goals in three games after he found the back of the net in Wednesday's 3-1 Carling Cup win at Exeter.
Suarez netted in Liverpool's season-opener against Sunderland before scoring off the bench in last weekend's 2-0 success over Arsenal.
Dalglish knew Suarez would have his tail up following a hugely successful Copa America and the Anfield boss is pleased the striker has maintained his good form.
High
"He was on a high when he came back from the Copa America," he told the club's official website. "He was voted player of the tournament and they won it, so he is going to be on a high and flying.
"Luis is always going to score goals, but three in three is certainly a reasonable return from him."
Strike partner Andy Carroll also found the back of the net in the Carling Cup tie and Dalglish is pleased with both of his big-money captures.
"We're delighted with the pair of them and I'm sure we'll be happy with their contributions - not just this season, but throughout their careers at Liverpool," he concluded.
Suarez netted in Liverpool's season-opener against Sunderland before scoring off the bench in last weekend's 2-0 success over Arsenal.
Dalglish knew Suarez would have his tail up following a hugely successful Copa America and the Anfield boss is pleased the striker has maintained his good form.
High
"He was on a high when he came back from the Copa America," he told the club's official website. "He was voted player of the tournament and they won it, so he is going to be on a high and flying.
"Luis is always going to score goals, but three in three is certainly a reasonable return from him."
Strike partner Andy Carroll also found the back of the net in the Carling Cup tie and Dalglish is pleased with both of his big-money captures.
"We're delighted with the pair of them and I'm sure we'll be happy with their contributions - not just this season, but throughout their careers at Liverpool," he concluded.
Skrtel relief at comeback
The 26-year-old had appeared in every minute of Liverpool's 2010/11 Premier League campaign, but a calf injury suffered during the summer wrecked his pre-season.
The Slovakia defender was forced to sit out Liverpool's opening two league games of the season but played the full 90 minutes of the match at St James' Park, which Liverpool won 3-1 to progress through to the Carling Cup third round.
Skrtel was understandably delighted with his side's win against the League One outfit but on a personal level was just relieved to finally make it back onto the field.
"I really missed this," Skrtel wrote on his personal website.
"I am glad that we managed to secure our way through to the next round and personally, I am happy that the calf did not cause me any trouble whatsoever and that I could play the full 90 minutes.
"Hopefully it will stay like this."
The Slovakia defender was forced to sit out Liverpool's opening two league games of the season but played the full 90 minutes of the match at St James' Park, which Liverpool won 3-1 to progress through to the Carling Cup third round.
Skrtel was understandably delighted with his side's win against the League One outfit but on a personal level was just relieved to finally make it back onto the field.
"I really missed this," Skrtel wrote on his personal website.
"I am glad that we managed to secure our way through to the next round and personally, I am happy that the calf did not cause me any trouble whatsoever and that I could play the full 90 minutes.
"Hopefully it will stay like this."
Reds ease past Exeter
Luis Suarez, Andy Carroll and Maxi Rodriguez all found the net, before Daniel Nardiello claimed a late consolation from the penalty spot.
Uruguayan Suarez grabbed the opener after 23 minutes as he volleyed home, before teeing up Maxi and substitute Carroll to put a seal on the victory after the break.
But there was some concern for Dalglish as the Scot lost Raul Meireles to injury inside the first quarter of the game. The Portuguese left the field clutching his shoulder after coming off worse in a challenge with Danny Coles.
Exeter battled bravely but carved out very few opportunities, although Daniel Nardiello did at least pull a goal back from the spot after he had been felled by Martin Skrtel in the box.
Dalglish named a strong side for his first League Cup tie as Reds boss since 1990.
Suarez led the attack having been on bench duty against Arsenal, while Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Pepe Reina were all retained from the side that started against the Gunners.
The Grecians may have had dreams of a famous upset but Liverpool were always in control after making an assured start.
Skrtel volleyed into the side netting inside three minutes before Adam forced Artur Krysiak into a near-post save after he was left free at a short corner.
Exeter had a great chance to take a 16th-minute lead as Nardiello was left unmarked from a Chris Shephard corner, but the striker's header was straight at Reina.
Injuries
Liverpool then lost Meireles to injury after 19 minutes, the Portuguese disappearing straight down the tunnel with Andy Carroll his replacement.
But the Reds overcame that loss and were soon ahead as Krysiak succeeded in tipping a Henderson cross only as far as Suarez, who volleyed home despite the best efforts of Richard Duffy on the line.
Exeter then lost a man of their own as an apparent hamstring injury ended Guillem Bauza's night, with Jimmy Keohane being summoned from the bench.
Rodriguez should have doubled the Reds' advantage after 34 minutes when Suarez turned Billy Jones, but the Argentinian could not get a touch as the ball was rolled across the six-yard box.
Adam then dragged wide from the edge of the box after more promising link up work between Suarez and Carroll.
Exeter created their second clear chance of the night within seconds of the restart as a Shephard ball saw Nardiello loft the ball over the onrushing Reina, but his effort ran wide of the left-hand post.
Henderson was then booked as he was adjudged to have dived in the area under the challenge of Coles, but the second Liverpool goal arrived just nine minutes into the second half as the ever-threatening Suarez calmly picked out Rodriguez at the second attempt to allow the midfielder to slot into the left hand corner.
And the win was secured just four minutes later as Suarez beat Troy Archibald-Henville before Carroll smashed an unstoppable left-foot drive beyond Krysiak.
That was the final act in a Suarez masterclass and he was withdrawn with Stewart Downing coming on.
Carroll wasted a good chance to grab his second as he nodded wide but it was Exeter who grabbed a consolation goal with 10 minutes to play.
Skrtel was guilty of a clumsy challenge on Nardiello as the striker broke into the box, and the former Blackpool forward slotted home from the spot.
Uruguayan Suarez grabbed the opener after 23 minutes as he volleyed home, before teeing up Maxi and substitute Carroll to put a seal on the victory after the break.
But there was some concern for Dalglish as the Scot lost Raul Meireles to injury inside the first quarter of the game. The Portuguese left the field clutching his shoulder after coming off worse in a challenge with Danny Coles.
Exeter battled bravely but carved out very few opportunities, although Daniel Nardiello did at least pull a goal back from the spot after he had been felled by Martin Skrtel in the box.
Dalglish named a strong side for his first League Cup tie as Reds boss since 1990.
Suarez led the attack having been on bench duty against Arsenal, while Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Pepe Reina were all retained from the side that started against the Gunners.
The Grecians may have had dreams of a famous upset but Liverpool were always in control after making an assured start.
Skrtel volleyed into the side netting inside three minutes before Adam forced Artur Krysiak into a near-post save after he was left free at a short corner.
Exeter had a great chance to take a 16th-minute lead as Nardiello was left unmarked from a Chris Shephard corner, but the striker's header was straight at Reina.
Injuries
Liverpool then lost Meireles to injury after 19 minutes, the Portuguese disappearing straight down the tunnel with Andy Carroll his replacement.
But the Reds overcame that loss and were soon ahead as Krysiak succeeded in tipping a Henderson cross only as far as Suarez, who volleyed home despite the best efforts of Richard Duffy on the line.
Exeter then lost a man of their own as an apparent hamstring injury ended Guillem Bauza's night, with Jimmy Keohane being summoned from the bench.
Rodriguez should have doubled the Reds' advantage after 34 minutes when Suarez turned Billy Jones, but the Argentinian could not get a touch as the ball was rolled across the six-yard box.
Adam then dragged wide from the edge of the box after more promising link up work between Suarez and Carroll.
Exeter created their second clear chance of the night within seconds of the restart as a Shephard ball saw Nardiello loft the ball over the onrushing Reina, but his effort ran wide of the left-hand post.
Henderson was then booked as he was adjudged to have dived in the area under the challenge of Coles, but the second Liverpool goal arrived just nine minutes into the second half as the ever-threatening Suarez calmly picked out Rodriguez at the second attempt to allow the midfielder to slot into the left hand corner.
And the win was secured just four minutes later as Suarez beat Troy Archibald-Henville before Carroll smashed an unstoppable left-foot drive beyond Krysiak.
That was the final act in a Suarez masterclass and he was withdrawn with Stewart Downing coming on.
Carroll wasted a good chance to grab his second as he nodded wide but it was Exeter who grabbed a consolation goal with 10 minutes to play.
Skrtel was guilty of a clumsy challenge on Nardiello as the striker broke into the box, and the former Blackpool forward slotted home from the spot.
Inter make Kuyt offer
Inter are looking for striking reinforcements with Samuel Eto'o poised to join Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala and Kuyt is on their list of targets.
The Italians have held a long-term interest in the Holland international and they tried to sign Kuyt last summer while former boss Rafa Benitez was still in charge at the San Siro.
Kuyt's representative Rob Jansen admits the 31-year-old needs to think about the offer from Inter.
"Inter Milan have made an attractive offer for Dirk and he has to think about it," Jansen told RTV West. "However, the two clubs have yet to agree a deal."
It is unlikely Liverpool would be willing to sell Kuyt as he enjoyed a strong second half to last season and he was rewarded with a contract extension to keep him at Anfield until 2013.
Kuyt was left out of Liverpool's starting line-up for the opening draw at home to Sunderland, but he returned to the first XI for the weekend win at Arsenal.
The Italians have held a long-term interest in the Holland international and they tried to sign Kuyt last summer while former boss Rafa Benitez was still in charge at the San Siro.
Kuyt's representative Rob Jansen admits the 31-year-old needs to think about the offer from Inter.
"Inter Milan have made an attractive offer for Dirk and he has to think about it," Jansen told RTV West. "However, the two clubs have yet to agree a deal."
It is unlikely Liverpool would be willing to sell Kuyt as he enjoyed a strong second half to last season and he was rewarded with a contract extension to keep him at Anfield until 2013.
Kuyt was left out of Liverpool's starting line-up for the opening draw at home to Sunderland, but he returned to the first XI for the weekend win at Arsenal.
Carra hails Liverpool depth
Kenny Dalglish has spent over £100million at Liverpool since assuming control of the team in a bid to reinvigorate it, and has added much-needed depth and quality.
Against Arsenal on Saturday in Liverpool's 2-0 win at the Emirates - their first away against the Gunners in 11 years - it was clearly demonstrated.
With 20 minutes left of the game, and with the home side reduced to 10 men after the dismissal of youngster Emmanuel Frimpong for two yellow cards, Dalglish made two crucial changes.
Summoned
Raul Meireles and Luis Suarez where both summoned from the bench to replace Andy Carroll and Dirk Kuyt, with the latter scoring the second, while the former was instrumental in both goals.
"That's always been a complaint from supporters or people in the media about the bench at Liverpool,'' Carragher told the club's official website.
"But to have that quality to come on, they were instrumental in killing the game off for us."
Sunderland
Jordan Henderson was brought in from Sunderland in an eye catching £20million deal at the start of the summer.
His indifferent displays for England at the European Under 21 Championship caused many to question if such a fee was justified for Henderson.
Along with Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing, he is forming a new-look Liverpool midfield, and Carragher feels it is still a little too early to judge the new players and praised the contribution of the midfield tyro in the win over Arsenal.
He added: "The time to judge the new signings is at the end of the season but I thought they played a massive part in the win. Jordan Henderson was outstanding in a midfield role."
Against Arsenal on Saturday in Liverpool's 2-0 win at the Emirates - their first away against the Gunners in 11 years - it was clearly demonstrated.
With 20 minutes left of the game, and with the home side reduced to 10 men after the dismissal of youngster Emmanuel Frimpong for two yellow cards, Dalglish made two crucial changes.
Summoned
Raul Meireles and Luis Suarez where both summoned from the bench to replace Andy Carroll and Dirk Kuyt, with the latter scoring the second, while the former was instrumental in both goals.
"That's always been a complaint from supporters or people in the media about the bench at Liverpool,'' Carragher told the club's official website.
"But to have that quality to come on, they were instrumental in killing the game off for us."
Sunderland
Jordan Henderson was brought in from Sunderland in an eye catching £20million deal at the start of the summer.
His indifferent displays for England at the European Under 21 Championship caused many to question if such a fee was justified for Henderson.
Along with Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing, he is forming a new-look Liverpool midfield, and Carragher feels it is still a little too early to judge the new players and praised the contribution of the midfield tyro in the win over Arsenal.
He added: "The time to judge the new signings is at the end of the season but I thought they played a massive part in the win. Jordan Henderson was outstanding in a midfield role."
Kenny keen to manage Suarez
Suarez came off the bench along with fellow substitute Raul Meireles to inspire Liverpool to a 2-0 win over Arsenal on Saturday.
It was the duo who combined to force the breakthrough after Arsenal had been reduced to 10 men in the wake of Emmanuel Frimpong's red card when Ignasi Miquel's clearance bounced off Aaron Ramsey and into the net. Suarez then tapped in a second goal in the final minute.
Dalglish admits he was wrong to start Suarez against Sunderland last week after his late return from international duty due to the Copa America.
"Last week (against Sunderland) maybe I was being a wee bit romantic with Luis," said Dalglish.
"It was unfair on him, he was coming back and was on such a high and looked sharp in training. I thought I would give him a game.
"He still scored the goal, still played well, but he just never had the energy he normally has. Maybe we just brought him back a wee bit too soon."
Manage
Dalglish added: "We have got to manage Luis' circumstances the same as we have everybody else's. There were another four or five lads there who we had for the first time.
"Raul Meireles has had a difficult pre-season with injuries so we have got to look after him as well as Luis."
Liverpool have been one of the busiest sides in the transfer market and Dalglish is refusing to rule out any more comings and goings before the transfer deadline at the end of the month.
"It is inevitable that movement goes on in football," said the Liverpool manager.
"If someone taps on your door for whatever reason... but if everybody stays here I don't have any problems."
It was the duo who combined to force the breakthrough after Arsenal had been reduced to 10 men in the wake of Emmanuel Frimpong's red card when Ignasi Miquel's clearance bounced off Aaron Ramsey and into the net. Suarez then tapped in a second goal in the final minute.
Dalglish admits he was wrong to start Suarez against Sunderland last week after his late return from international duty due to the Copa America.
"Last week (against Sunderland) maybe I was being a wee bit romantic with Luis," said Dalglish.
"It was unfair on him, he was coming back and was on such a high and looked sharp in training. I thought I would give him a game.
"He still scored the goal, still played well, but he just never had the energy he normally has. Maybe we just brought him back a wee bit too soon."
Manage
Dalglish added: "We have got to manage Luis' circumstances the same as we have everybody else's. There were another four or five lads there who we had for the first time.
"Raul Meireles has had a difficult pre-season with injuries so we have got to look after him as well as Luis."
Liverpool have been one of the busiest sides in the transfer market and Dalglish is refusing to rule out any more comings and goings before the transfer deadline at the end of the month.
"It is inevitable that movement goes on in football," said the Liverpool manager.
"If someone taps on your door for whatever reason... but if everybody stays here I don't have any problems."
Aquilani in Milan claim
Aquilani spent last season back in his homeland with a loan spell at Juventus, before returning to Anfield earlier in the summer.
Aquilani has been continually linked with a move back to his native Italy summer with the former Roma man seemingly not figuring in Kenny Dalglish's plans.
Juventus declined to sign Aquilani on a permanent basis because of his price-tag, while the 27-year-old also came close to joining Fiorentina earlier this summer, but he pulled out of the move as he wanted a permanent transfer rather than a loan deal.
Milan have now expressed an interest in Aquilani as they look to bolster their midfield options after being frustrated in their attempts to land Fiorentina's Riccardo Montolivo
"I am close to joining Milan," Aquilani told Gazzetta dello Sport.
It remains to be seen if the move would be a loan deal or a permanent deal with Liverpool thought to be keen on a permanent transfer so that they can raise funds for their own transfer plans.
Aquilani has been continually linked with a move back to his native Italy summer with the former Roma man seemingly not figuring in Kenny Dalglish's plans.
Juventus declined to sign Aquilani on a permanent basis because of his price-tag, while the 27-year-old also came close to joining Fiorentina earlier this summer, but he pulled out of the move as he wanted a permanent transfer rather than a loan deal.
Milan have now expressed an interest in Aquilani as they look to bolster their midfield options after being frustrated in their attempts to land Fiorentina's Riccardo Montolivo
"I am close to joining Milan," Aquilani told Gazzetta dello Sport.
It remains to be seen if the move would be a loan deal or a permanent deal with Liverpool thought to be keen on a permanent transfer so that they can raise funds for their own transfer plans.
Carragher hails Emirates win
Aaron Ramsey's unfortunate own goal and Luis Suarez's late strike proved to be enough to give Liverpool their first ever win at the Emirates.
An under-strength Arsenal side was further depleted by an early injury to Laurent Koscielny and the sending-off of Emmanuel Frimpong and Carragher, who captained Liverpool in the absence of Steven Gerrard, admitted it was a good time to play the Gunners.
"They are such a great side and have been for a long time and it is a difficult place to come but we deserved (the win) today," Carragher told Sky Sports HD2.
"To be fair to them they have a lot of injuries and they had a couple more at the back today so when you have that many it is going to be awkward but I think (Thomas) Vermaelen was outstanding, especially in the first half."
Carragher also felt the win was important following last weekend's disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Sunderland.
"Last week was a bit of a comedown after everyone had started well - the players, fans and staff were on a bit of a downer and I think we had a little to prove here after that," added Carragher.
Room for improvement
Man of the match Jose Enrique felt the own goal changed the game but still feels there is room for improvement in the Liverpool side.
"We had a lot of chances in the first half and didn't score but after the first goal we had control of the game," noted Enrique.
"All (the new signings) started today in the first XI and we did OK and won against one of the best teams in England.
"We have to play more together to play better but we did well today. I think I played OK but I have to know the players more."
An under-strength Arsenal side was further depleted by an early injury to Laurent Koscielny and the sending-off of Emmanuel Frimpong and Carragher, who captained Liverpool in the absence of Steven Gerrard, admitted it was a good time to play the Gunners.
"They are such a great side and have been for a long time and it is a difficult place to come but we deserved (the win) today," Carragher told Sky Sports HD2.
"To be fair to them they have a lot of injuries and they had a couple more at the back today so when you have that many it is going to be awkward but I think (Thomas) Vermaelen was outstanding, especially in the first half."
Carragher also felt the win was important following last weekend's disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Sunderland.
"Last week was a bit of a comedown after everyone had started well - the players, fans and staff were on a bit of a downer and I think we had a little to prove here after that," added Carragher.
Room for improvement
Man of the match Jose Enrique felt the own goal changed the game but still feels there is room for improvement in the Liverpool side.
"We had a lot of chances in the first half and didn't score but after the first goal we had control of the game," noted Enrique.
"All (the new signings) started today in the first XI and we did OK and won against one of the best teams in England.
"We have to play more together to play better but we did well today. I think I played OK but I have to know the players more."
El Zhar to leave Liverpool
The 24-year-old joined the Reds from St Etienne in October 2006, scoring one goal in 32 appearances.
The Moroccan spent last season on loan with Greek club PAOK.
A statement on Thursday read: "Liverpool football club this evening confirmed they have reached agreement to release Nabil El Zhar from his Anfield contract.
"The player is now expected to join Spanish side Levante, who have announced on their website they expect to finalise a two-year deal in the coming days."
The Moroccan spent last season on loan with Greek club PAOK.
A statement on Thursday read: "Liverpool football club this evening confirmed they have reached agreement to release Nabil El Zhar from his Anfield contract.
"The player is now expected to join Spanish side Levante, who have announced on their website they expect to finalise a two-year deal in the coming days."
Enrique targets Champions League
The Spanish left-back became the latest Anfield recruit before the start of the season with his £6million move from Newcastle.
Liverpool have missed out on the Champions League for the last two years and supporters are hoping Kenny Dalglish's £100million spree will see them claim a place amongst Europe's elite again.
Enrique has yet to play in the Champions League during his career and has revealed one of his reasons for moving to Merseyside was the lure of Champions League football.
Champions League
"Everyone wants to be there. I've never played in the Champions League and it's a dream for me," he said.
"You have to be realistic, it's really difficult this year because the Premier League is the best league in the world and seven or eight teams here are really good.
"It's very difficult to be there but if we play like we played in the first half against Sunderland I think we can be there."
Over the last couple of seasons, Liverpool have tried to find a solution to their problematic left-back position.
Fabio Aurelio, though rich in experience, often succumbed to injury and left successive managers with a selection dilemma.
And the former Newcastle full-back expects a fierce battle to cement his status as the club's premier left-back.
"We have an amazing squad," he added. "He (Aurelio) has been unlucky with injuries but he's really good. I saw him playing for Valencia.
"It's good for the players to have competition because you know your work is never done."
Liverpool have missed out on the Champions League for the last two years and supporters are hoping Kenny Dalglish's £100million spree will see them claim a place amongst Europe's elite again.
Enrique has yet to play in the Champions League during his career and has revealed one of his reasons for moving to Merseyside was the lure of Champions League football.
Champions League
"Everyone wants to be there. I've never played in the Champions League and it's a dream for me," he said.
"You have to be realistic, it's really difficult this year because the Premier League is the best league in the world and seven or eight teams here are really good.
"It's very difficult to be there but if we play like we played in the first half against Sunderland I think we can be there."
Over the last couple of seasons, Liverpool have tried to find a solution to their problematic left-back position.
Fabio Aurelio, though rich in experience, often succumbed to injury and left successive managers with a selection dilemma.
And the former Newcastle full-back expects a fierce battle to cement his status as the club's premier left-back.
"We have an amazing squad," he added. "He (Aurelio) has been unlucky with injuries but he's really good. I saw him playing for Valencia.
"It's good for the players to have competition because you know your work is never done."
Reds could sign more
Having already spent £48.5million on the arrivals of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing, Alexander Doni and Jose Enrique, there are still expected to be more arrivals at Anfield this summer.
A centre-back is thought to be a top priority and Liverpool have been linked with Stoke's Ryan Shawcross, Bolton's Gary Cahill and Birmingham's Scott Dann ahead of a 31st August transfer deadline.
Speaking in the build-up to Saturday lunchtime's match at Arsenal, Dalglish attempted to keep his cards close to his chest regarding the recruitment plans, but did not dismiss extra signings.
"Until the transfer window shuts, the most honest answer I can give is, 'I don't know'."
Kenny Dalglish Quotes of the week
Asked whether Enrique could be Liverpool's final acquisition of the summer, Dalglish, who signed as manager on a permanent basis in May, is quoted as saying: "I don't know - it's the same as I don't know if that's your last question!
"I cannot answer it honestly. I suppose it's a little bit like last year when I was asked, 'when are you signing the contract?' or, 'have you been asked to sign?' - until the transfer window shuts, the most honest answer I can give is, 'I don't know'."
Potential
Meanwhile, ahead of the game against Arsenal at Emirates Stadium, Dalglish has confirmed Glen Johnson is Liverpool's only injury concern along with the recuperating Steven Gerrard.
The Scot said: "I think there is only Glen Johnson who might be a doubt, but other than that everybody's relatively fit."
Asked about the progress Gerrard is making in his rehabilitation from a groin problem, Dalglish replied: "Brilliant."
Enrique was one of four players making their Premier League debuts for Liverpool in last weekend's disappointing draw with Sunderland, a result which Dalglish has insisted was not due to fatigue.
And the former Newcastle full-back has impressed his new manager, who said: "He's a good player, he's got experience in the Premier League and he's settled into the way of life in England, so that's helpful to us.
"It's a position we had to strengthen. Young Jack Robinson has got fantastic potential, but we have to responsible with him. He's 17 years of age and to throw him in and expect him to play a full season would have been wrong - but he'll be there or thereabouts."
He added: "It's always helpful when you know the environment you're in and for us that was an important factor when we were looking for a full-back - somebody who has a knowledge of the game and the Premier League.
"He certainly has that. He's been here for four years, his English is good - it's better than mine and his football is better than mine as well! - so we're quite happy with the signing of Jose."
A centre-back is thought to be a top priority and Liverpool have been linked with Stoke's Ryan Shawcross, Bolton's Gary Cahill and Birmingham's Scott Dann ahead of a 31st August transfer deadline.
Speaking in the build-up to Saturday lunchtime's match at Arsenal, Dalglish attempted to keep his cards close to his chest regarding the recruitment plans, but did not dismiss extra signings.
"Until the transfer window shuts, the most honest answer I can give is, 'I don't know'."
Kenny Dalglish Quotes of the week
Asked whether Enrique could be Liverpool's final acquisition of the summer, Dalglish, who signed as manager on a permanent basis in May, is quoted as saying: "I don't know - it's the same as I don't know if that's your last question!
"I cannot answer it honestly. I suppose it's a little bit like last year when I was asked, 'when are you signing the contract?' or, 'have you been asked to sign?' - until the transfer window shuts, the most honest answer I can give is, 'I don't know'."
Potential
Meanwhile, ahead of the game against Arsenal at Emirates Stadium, Dalglish has confirmed Glen Johnson is Liverpool's only injury concern along with the recuperating Steven Gerrard.
The Scot said: "I think there is only Glen Johnson who might be a doubt, but other than that everybody's relatively fit."
Asked about the progress Gerrard is making in his rehabilitation from a groin problem, Dalglish replied: "Brilliant."
Enrique was one of four players making their Premier League debuts for Liverpool in last weekend's disappointing draw with Sunderland, a result which Dalglish has insisted was not due to fatigue.
And the former Newcastle full-back has impressed his new manager, who said: "He's a good player, he's got experience in the Premier League and he's settled into the way of life in England, so that's helpful to us.
"It's a position we had to strengthen. Young Jack Robinson has got fantastic potential, but we have to responsible with him. He's 17 years of age and to throw him in and expect him to play a full season would have been wrong - but he'll be there or thereabouts."
He added: "It's always helpful when you know the environment you're in and for us that was an important factor when we were looking for a full-back - somebody who has a knowledge of the game and the Premier League.
"He certainly has that. He's been here for four years, his English is good - it's better than mine and his football is better than mine as well! - so we're quite happy with the signing of Jose."
Stoke won't sell Shawcross
Anfield boss Kenny Dalglish is expected to sign a new centre-back before the end of August and has also been linked with Birmingham's Scott Dann and Bolton's Gary Cahill.
Reports regarding Shawcross joining Liverpool have increased since Pulis seemingly signed covering options in Jonathan Woodgate and Matthew Upson.
But ahead of Thursday's Europa League play-off at Swiss side FC Thun, the Stoke manager insists he has no intention of selling and only wants to add to his squad.
"We have got no need to sell Ryan," Pulis said in the Daily Mail. "We want to spend money if we can.
"I think the chairman and the board have made it quite clear that their intentions are to try to improve the squad this year.
"We are very pleased with the defenders we've got, now we have to improve our midfield and forward line."
Reports regarding Shawcross joining Liverpool have increased since Pulis seemingly signed covering options in Jonathan Woodgate and Matthew Upson.
But ahead of Thursday's Europa League play-off at Swiss side FC Thun, the Stoke manager insists he has no intention of selling and only wants to add to his squad.
"We have got no need to sell Ryan," Pulis said in the Daily Mail. "We want to spend money if we can.
"I think the chairman and the board have made it quite clear that their intentions are to try to improve the squad this year.
"We are very pleased with the defenders we've got, now we have to improve our midfield and forward line."
Reina wants to become a legend
The five-time kings of Europe are not playing continental football this season after finishing a disappointing sixth in the Premier League in the last campaign, which followed a position of seventh in 2009/10.
Reina, who was the subject of summer interest from Manchester United and Arsenal before reiterating his desire to stay at Anfield, admits Liverpool's underachievement is a disappointment.
But the Spaniard is encouraged by the arrival of £48.5million-worth of summer signings and has targeted a return to the top four before next term challenging to win a first league title since 1989/90.
"It's difficult because we have been some distance from those aspirations for a long time," said Reina.
Big history
"The priority is to return to the top four and keep improving. It's fundamental the team gets back into Europe, then next year makes the jump to challenge for the title.
"I have always been in the situation of playing in midweek so it's new for me. They say it can be an advantage (not playing in Europe) and I hope we can benefit from not having such a heavy schedule.
"I think the new signings have the advantage of having played many years in this league, that always makes things easier.
"This club has a big history and we have to follow those legends."
Reina also believes new United goalkeeper David de Gea will go on to justify his £17.8m fee after a tough start to his career in England..
"It is typical that the critics smell blood when there is a mistake," said Reina. "But if Mr Ferguson has put his trust in him by signing him then it seems logical that he will settle and be a quality signing for them."
Reina, who was the subject of summer interest from Manchester United and Arsenal before reiterating his desire to stay at Anfield, admits Liverpool's underachievement is a disappointment.
But the Spaniard is encouraged by the arrival of £48.5million-worth of summer signings and has targeted a return to the top four before next term challenging to win a first league title since 1989/90.
"It's difficult because we have been some distance from those aspirations for a long time," said Reina.
Big history
"The priority is to return to the top four and keep improving. It's fundamental the team gets back into Europe, then next year makes the jump to challenge for the title.
"I have always been in the situation of playing in midweek so it's new for me. They say it can be an advantage (not playing in Europe) and I hope we can benefit from not having such a heavy schedule.
"I think the new signings have the advantage of having played many years in this league, that always makes things easier.
"This club has a big history and we have to follow those legends."
Reina also believes new United goalkeeper David de Gea will go on to justify his £17.8m fee after a tough start to his career in England..
"It is typical that the critics smell blood when there is a mistake," said Reina. "But if Mr Ferguson has put his trust in him by signing him then it seems logical that he will settle and be a quality signing for them."
Rodriguez relishes competition
Since the window opened, Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has added Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing to his midfield, leaving Argentine playmaker Rodriguez battling for his place.
During the Reds' 1-1 draw with Sunderland at the weekend, Adam, Downing and Henderson were all preferred to Rodriguez, who was not included in Dalglish's squad.
Despite his seven goals and two hat-tricks for Liverpool last season, the former Atletico Madrid man looks to be out of favour at Anfield but is adamant that the increased competition is a good thing.
Competition
Talking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodriguez said: "Healthy competition is always good.
"Competition for places is always a positive thing for the club and I think it's great that the signings who have arrived are of such high quality with a great level of skill and technique.
"It means the manager has to decide on what he thinks is his best 11, but that is something he will decide and we will all be hoping we are in it.
"It's always nice to welcome in new faces to the club and you always go out of your way to make them feel as comfortable as possible. They are settling in well."
Strong Start
Rodriguez believes that a good start is vital for Liverpool's season, and is eager to hit the ground running.
He added: "I don't think you can stress enough the importance of the first few weeks of the season.
"If you can see yourself near the top of the table it's great and the confidence that gives helps you grow as a team and as a squad.
"It also means that the teams you are facing will maybe come to Anfield with a different attitude, perhaps showing more respect when they're coming to play against you.
Aspirations
"I think that at the start of any season your ultimate goal is to win the league and come out as champions.
"If you can aim to achieve that then by the very fact that you are fighting for the title it will almost guarantee that you will be involved in the Champions League the following season.
"A team like Liverpool has to be battling on that level and have those kind of aspirations for the end of the season."
During the Reds' 1-1 draw with Sunderland at the weekend, Adam, Downing and Henderson were all preferred to Rodriguez, who was not included in Dalglish's squad.
Despite his seven goals and two hat-tricks for Liverpool last season, the former Atletico Madrid man looks to be out of favour at Anfield but is adamant that the increased competition is a good thing.
Competition
Talking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodriguez said: "Healthy competition is always good.
"Competition for places is always a positive thing for the club and I think it's great that the signings who have arrived are of such high quality with a great level of skill and technique.
"It means the manager has to decide on what he thinks is his best 11, but that is something he will decide and we will all be hoping we are in it.
"It's always nice to welcome in new faces to the club and you always go out of your way to make them feel as comfortable as possible. They are settling in well."
Strong Start
Rodriguez believes that a good start is vital for Liverpool's season, and is eager to hit the ground running.
He added: "I don't think you can stress enough the importance of the first few weeks of the season.
"If you can see yourself near the top of the table it's great and the confidence that gives helps you grow as a team and as a squad.
"It also means that the teams you are facing will maybe come to Anfield with a different attitude, perhaps showing more respect when they're coming to play against you.
Aspirations
"I think that at the start of any season your ultimate goal is to win the league and come out as champions.
"If you can aim to achieve that then by the very fact that you are fighting for the title it will almost guarantee that you will be involved in the Champions League the following season.
"A team like Liverpool has to be battling on that level and have those kind of aspirations for the end of the season."
Rio sidelined for six weeks
The England international picked up the knock during Manchester United's 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.
He limped out of the action after 75 minutes and was clearly in some discomfort.
Ferguson had already seen Brazilian full-back Rafael ruled out before the game with a dislocated shoulder, while captain Nemanja Vidic also limped off against the Baggies.
He is now facing something of a selection poser at the back, but he is confident United have the strength in depth to handle an early-season injury crisis.
"We have had a torrid two or three days because young Rafa has done his shoulder in training on Friday, he will be out for 10 weeks because he needs an operation," Ferguson told Sky Sports.
"Rio will be six weeks. Vida, we don't know if it is a nerve or not and we will have that checked tomorrow (Monday). He could be out for a couple of weeks.
"But with having Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans, it's a god send to be honest. Patrice Evra will be back next week, so we have got options."
Learning process
United went in front at the Hawthorns through Wayne Rooney but required a late own goal from Steven Reid to secure the points after Shane Long had forced a low drive under David de Gea.
On the performance put in by his side in the Midlands, Ferguson said: "The first 25 minutes, I thought we were superb. Our movement of the ball was great and the interchange of play. The speed of the play was great and then for some reason we slowed the build-up to a level that we lost our momentum.
"We then lost a goal that David should have done better at - I think it was just a lack of concentration, but welcome to English football. He took a battering in the second half and should have been protected more by the referee, but he wasn't. He has had to withstand it, so it's a good experience for him."
De Gea also experienced a tough time in United's Community Shield victory over Manchester City, but Ferguson is confident the young Spaniard will learn from his mistakes.
"I think my recollection of goalkeepers coming from Europe is that it is a learning process," he said.
"We expect a learning process to be in operation and we will see it through. We just need to pat him on the head."
He limped out of the action after 75 minutes and was clearly in some discomfort.
Ferguson had already seen Brazilian full-back Rafael ruled out before the game with a dislocated shoulder, while captain Nemanja Vidic also limped off against the Baggies.
He is now facing something of a selection poser at the back, but he is confident United have the strength in depth to handle an early-season injury crisis.
"We have had a torrid two or three days because young Rafa has done his shoulder in training on Friday, he will be out for 10 weeks because he needs an operation," Ferguson told Sky Sports.
"Rio will be six weeks. Vida, we don't know if it is a nerve or not and we will have that checked tomorrow (Monday). He could be out for a couple of weeks.
"But with having Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans, it's a god send to be honest. Patrice Evra will be back next week, so we have got options."
Learning process
United went in front at the Hawthorns through Wayne Rooney but required a late own goal from Steven Reid to secure the points after Shane Long had forced a low drive under David de Gea.
On the performance put in by his side in the Midlands, Ferguson said: "The first 25 minutes, I thought we were superb. Our movement of the ball was great and the interchange of play. The speed of the play was great and then for some reason we slowed the build-up to a level that we lost our momentum.
"We then lost a goal that David should have done better at - I think it was just a lack of concentration, but welcome to English football. He took a battering in the second half and should have been protected more by the referee, but he wasn't. He has had to withstand it, so it's a good experience for him."
De Gea also experienced a tough time in United's Community Shield victory over Manchester City, but Ferguson is confident the young Spaniard will learn from his mistakes.
"I think my recollection of goalkeepers coming from Europe is that it is a learning process," he said.
"We expect a learning process to be in operation and we will see it through. We just need to pat him on the head."
Fergie rules out more signings
Ferguson was believed to be on the lookout for a replacement for retired midfield ace Paul Scholes this summer with several players, including Wesley Sneijder, Luka Modric and Samir Nasri, having been linked with an Old Trafford move.
Inter Milan ace Sneijder has been widely tipped as the Red Devils' primary target, but the manager has maintained a firm stance over the midfielder, insisting he is not on his wishlist.
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And Ferguson has reiterated that position by insisting he has no plans for any more transfer business before the window closes.
"I'm certainly not looking to add to the players I've got," Ferguson told the Daily Express.
"I've been saying that for weeks but the media have been saying differently - that I'm going to buy this one or that one.
"We've said nothing, we just carry on with our business."
He added: "There is an emphasis on young players at this club and always has been. If they have the ability and temperament there is one thing you can do - play them."
Inter Milan ace Sneijder has been widely tipped as the Red Devils' primary target, but the manager has maintained a firm stance over the midfielder, insisting he is not on his wishlist.
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August 14, 2011 3:30pm
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And Ferguson has reiterated that position by insisting he has no plans for any more transfer business before the window closes.
"I'm certainly not looking to add to the players I've got," Ferguson told the Daily Express.
"I've been saying that for weeks but the media have been saying differently - that I'm going to buy this one or that one.
"We've said nothing, we just carry on with our business."
He added: "There is an emphasis on young players at this club and always has been. If they have the ability and temperament there is one thing you can do - play them."
Bhoys warn Reds off McCourt
Liverpool are believed to have made a tentative enquiry about McCourt's availability following his stunning showing for Northern Ireland against Faroe Islands last week.
The 27-year-old scored two superb solo goals in the 4-0 win over the Faroes and his performance alerted scouts from Liverpool.
Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is thought to be keen on adding some creativity to his attacking options and he sees McCourt as someone who can unlock defences with his skilful runs.
However, Celtic are thought to have warned Liverpool off making a move for McCourt as Neil Lennon is keen to keep the 27-year-old in Glasgow.
McCourt has struggled to establish himself as a regular in the Celtic side since arriving from Derry City in 2008, but he is highly regarded within the corridors of Parkhead.
Celtic insist McCourt is not for sale, but it remains to be seen if Liverpool will firm up their interest with a bid for the winger to try and force the Bhoys' hand.
The 27-year-old scored two superb solo goals in the 4-0 win over the Faroes and his performance alerted scouts from Liverpool.
Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is thought to be keen on adding some creativity to his attacking options and he sees McCourt as someone who can unlock defences with his skilful runs.
However, Celtic are thought to have warned Liverpool off making a move for McCourt as Neil Lennon is keen to keep the 27-year-old in Glasgow.
McCourt has struggled to establish himself as a regular in the Celtic side since arriving from Derry City in 2008, but he is highly regarded within the corridors of Parkhead.
Celtic insist McCourt is not for sale, but it remains to be seen if Liverpool will firm up their interest with a bid for the winger to try and force the Bhoys' hand.
Enrique offers Carroll support
Carroll, who is the club's record signing following his January switch from Newcastle, has struggled for form and fitness since arriving on Merseyside.
The England international had a quiet game in the 1-1 draw with Sunderland last weekend to raise concerns over his form.
However, Enrique who played alongside Carroll at Newcastle, believes the striker was not fit last season upon his arrival at Liverpool, but he expects the 22-year-old to deliver for Kenny Dalglish's troops.
Brilliant
"For us in Newcastle Andy was brilliant and I am sure he will be brilliant for Liverpool too," said Enrique.
"For us in Newcastle Andy was brilliant and I am sure he will be brilliant for Liverpool too."
Jose Enrique on Andy Carroll Quotes of the week
"He is a very good player. When a club like Liverpool pays £35million for Andy, I know it is not lucky. It is because they think he is a good player. I am sure he is going to do a lot of things for us.
"I watched him play last season and I knew he wasn't fit here. I don't care if the player is Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, if a player is not fit, he is not fit.
"Now he's okay, is playing very well in his position and is going to be an important player this season."
The England international had a quiet game in the 1-1 draw with Sunderland last weekend to raise concerns over his form.
However, Enrique who played alongside Carroll at Newcastle, believes the striker was not fit last season upon his arrival at Liverpool, but he expects the 22-year-old to deliver for Kenny Dalglish's troops.
Brilliant
"For us in Newcastle Andy was brilliant and I am sure he will be brilliant for Liverpool too," said Enrique.
"For us in Newcastle Andy was brilliant and I am sure he will be brilliant for Liverpool too."
Jose Enrique on Andy Carroll Quotes of the week
"He is a very good player. When a club like Liverpool pays £35million for Andy, I know it is not lucky. It is because they think he is a good player. I am sure he is going to do a lot of things for us.
"I watched him play last season and I knew he wasn't fit here. I don't care if the player is Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, if a player is not fit, he is not fit.
"Now he's okay, is playing very well in his position and is going to be an important player this season."
We are ready
The Reds looked on course for victory after an early Luis Suarez goal, but they were pegged back by Sebastian Larsson's volley.
Carroll admits not beating Sunderland was disappointing, but feels Liverpool are now ready to push on.
"We are disappointed with the draw but all the lads are happy to get the first game out of the way and with the way things are going," he said.
"We have played some good football, we played well (in the first half) and we will take some positives out of it.
"I think we all played well together, we have done well in training and we
created enough chances (against Sunderland) to prove that we can all fit in the team together.
"It is going to take everyone a little while to get together; we want a little bit more and we want to get a few more goals but we all think that it is there
"Now we have got the next game (at Arsenal) to look forward to."
Fully fit
Carroll himself insists he is now fully fit and ready to start living up to his £35million price tag.
"I have had the pre-season which I needed and it has helped me get over all
the niggles and injuries that I have had," said the 22-year-old.
"I was injured a long time, so it was nice to play a few games and get my fitness up, as well as getting a few goals.
"I'm just looking forward to the rest of the season and keeping myself fit.
"Now it is a case of pushing forward. I have got to show what I can do.
"It is a big stage and I love playing for this club.
"Now I have got to do what I did to get myself here (score goals) and I am out to prove that I can do it here."
Carroll said the influence of manager Kenny Dalglish, and the faith the Scot had shown in him, was a major help.
"Kenny is a great manager and it is great to know that he has given me all his
backing," the England striker added.
"I have just got to give it all back to him, really.
"In training he is giving me little pointers here, there and everywhere. Obviously I need to listen to him and put them into my game.
"It is nice to know that he has got faith in him and it is a big help."
Carroll admits not beating Sunderland was disappointing, but feels Liverpool are now ready to push on.
"We are disappointed with the draw but all the lads are happy to get the first game out of the way and with the way things are going," he said.
"We have played some good football, we played well (in the first half) and we will take some positives out of it.
"I think we all played well together, we have done well in training and we
created enough chances (against Sunderland) to prove that we can all fit in the team together.
"It is going to take everyone a little while to get together; we want a little bit more and we want to get a few more goals but we all think that it is there
"Now we have got the next game (at Arsenal) to look forward to."
Fully fit
Carroll himself insists he is now fully fit and ready to start living up to his £35million price tag.
"I have had the pre-season which I needed and it has helped me get over all
the niggles and injuries that I have had," said the 22-year-old.
"I was injured a long time, so it was nice to play a few games and get my fitness up, as well as getting a few goals.
"I'm just looking forward to the rest of the season and keeping myself fit.
"Now it is a case of pushing forward. I have got to show what I can do.
"It is a big stage and I love playing for this club.
"Now I have got to do what I did to get myself here (score goals) and I am out to prove that I can do it here."
Carroll said the influence of manager Kenny Dalglish, and the faith the Scot had shown in him, was a major help.
"Kenny is a great manager and it is great to know that he has given me all his
backing," the England striker added.
"I have just got to give it all back to him, really.
"In training he is giving me little pointers here, there and everywhere. Obviously I need to listen to him and put them into my game.
"It is nice to know that he has got faith in him and it is a big help."
Enrique content with debut
The Spaniard was thrown in at the deep end, starting the Reds' 1-1 draw with Sunderland after taking part in just one training session with his new team-mates after completing his move on Friday.
Enrique, who was only informed of his inclusion hours before kick-off after Fabio Aurelio failed to overcome an injury, put in a solid shift at full-back and expects the new-look side to gel in time.
"I think in the next few games, if I continue to play, it will be easy to understand players of this quality."
Jose Enrique Quotes of the week
"I am very happy because I only arrived the day before and I played my first game," he said.
"I was surprised. I only found out a few hours before kick-off. I knew Fabio had not trained but it was only this morning they told me.
"I am very happy (with my debut) but I am not really happy with the result. I think in the next few games, if I continue to play, it will be easy to understand players of this quality.
"It was just about defending first, because that is my job. I have plenty more days to train with the team and understand."
Next game
The 25-year-old is refusing to dwell on the Sunderland draw, a game which Liverpool led 1-0 through Luis Suarez before Seb Larsson spectacularly equalised in the second half.
"We have to think about the next game," he said, with Liverpool to travel to Arsenal next Saturday.
"We need more fitness but that is normal, as it is only the first game. I am okay. I am not 100% because I have not trained with the team and I need to get to know everyone. That is normal."
Meanwhile, manager Kenny Dalglish insists he had to start an unfit Suarez, who was bursting with enthusiasm having triumphed at the Copa America with Uruguay this summer.
The livewire forward ballooned a penalty before handing his side the lead, and Dalglish admits the miss took him by surprise.
He said: "Certainly Luis was never going to finish the match so it was no surprise we tailed off a little bit.
"We will manage all of them but he was on such a high when he came back we had to start with him. The surprising thing was the penalty kick - he didn't half miss it.
"We need to do better than that and we would like to think that we are going to have an improvement."
Enrique, who was only informed of his inclusion hours before kick-off after Fabio Aurelio failed to overcome an injury, put in a solid shift at full-back and expects the new-look side to gel in time.
"I think in the next few games, if I continue to play, it will be easy to understand players of this quality."
Jose Enrique Quotes of the week
"I am very happy because I only arrived the day before and I played my first game," he said.
"I was surprised. I only found out a few hours before kick-off. I knew Fabio had not trained but it was only this morning they told me.
"I am very happy (with my debut) but I am not really happy with the result. I think in the next few games, if I continue to play, it will be easy to understand players of this quality.
"It was just about defending first, because that is my job. I have plenty more days to train with the team and understand."
Next game
The 25-year-old is refusing to dwell on the Sunderland draw, a game which Liverpool led 1-0 through Luis Suarez before Seb Larsson spectacularly equalised in the second half.
"We have to think about the next game," he said, with Liverpool to travel to Arsenal next Saturday.
"We need more fitness but that is normal, as it is only the first game. I am okay. I am not 100% because I have not trained with the team and I need to get to know everyone. That is normal."
Meanwhile, manager Kenny Dalglish insists he had to start an unfit Suarez, who was bursting with enthusiasm having triumphed at the Copa America with Uruguay this summer.
The livewire forward ballooned a penalty before handing his side the lead, and Dalglish admits the miss took him by surprise.
He said: "Certainly Luis was never going to finish the match so it was no surprise we tailed off a little bit.
"We will manage all of them but he was on such a high when he came back we had to start with him. The surprising thing was the penalty kick - he didn't half miss it.
"We need to do better than that and we would like to think that we are going to have an improvement."
Ayala set to join Canaries
The 20-year-old made five league appearances for the Reds during his time at Anfield, moving to the club from Sevilla in 2007 under the reign of Rafael Benitez.
Ayala was thought to be one of Liverpool's most promising players having come through the ranks to the first team, but found his opportunities limited behind the Reds' more established backline.
The player was spotted watching the Canaries 1-1 draw with Wigan at the DW Stadium on the opening day of the season as Norwich re-joined the top flight following promotion from the Championship last season.
Ayala, who made 16 starts for Derby last season whilst on loan, will become the eighth signing of the summer by manager Paul Lambert.
He follows James Vaughan, Steve Morison, Elliott Bennett, Bradley Johnson and Anthony Pilkington on a permanent deal, whilst Ritchie De Laet and Kyle Naughton have also arrived on loan.
Ayala was thought to be one of Liverpool's most promising players having come through the ranks to the first team, but found his opportunities limited behind the Reds' more established backline.
The player was spotted watching the Canaries 1-1 draw with Wigan at the DW Stadium on the opening day of the season as Norwich re-joined the top flight following promotion from the Championship last season.
Ayala, who made 16 starts for Derby last season whilst on loan, will become the eighth signing of the summer by manager Paul Lambert.
He follows James Vaughan, Steve Morison, Elliott Bennett, Bradley Johnson and Anthony Pilkington on a permanent deal, whilst Ritchie De Laet and Kyle Naughton have also arrived on loan.
No complaints
The Scot saw his Reds side held to a 1-1 draw on the opening day of the new Premier League season.
Luis Suarez, who missed an earlier penalty, put the hosts in front, only to see Sebastian Larsson level for the visitors in the second half.
Dalglish believes his side controlled the game for long periods, but had no complaints about the result at the final whistle.
He said: "Over the game, for the effort and commitment they put in, I think a draw is probably about right.
"We had a few more chances, we were a bit unlucky having Andy Carroll's goal knocked off, which would have put us 2-0 up, but I think for their work and effort and how difficult they made it for us, they deserved a point."
One major talking point to emerge from the game arrived after just five minutes, as Kieran Richardson sent Suarez sprawling inside the box.
Incidents
A spot kick was given, but the Sunderland man was spared a red card.
Dalglish admits to being left a little bemused by the decision to only book Richardson, but he refused to condemn referee Phil Dowd.
He said: "You don't want to see people sent off, but I don't know what the rule book says. Was it a clear cut goal scoring opportunity, with Luis Suarez one-on-one with the goalkeeper - I don't see it any clearer than that.
"Then they say you are taking the ball away from goal and it's a yellow card. If you want to go round the goalkeeper, it's very difficult not to go away from goal.
"I think nine-and-a-half out of 10 would have given the red card, but we don't want to see anybody sent off.
"It must be this game, every time something happens - the beachball, a free-kick last year and the penalty kick last year up at the Stadium of Light, that was outside the box."
Luis Suarez, who missed an earlier penalty, put the hosts in front, only to see Sebastian Larsson level for the visitors in the second half.
Dalglish believes his side controlled the game for long periods, but had no complaints about the result at the final whistle.
He said: "Over the game, for the effort and commitment they put in, I think a draw is probably about right.
"We had a few more chances, we were a bit unlucky having Andy Carroll's goal knocked off, which would have put us 2-0 up, but I think for their work and effort and how difficult they made it for us, they deserved a point."
One major talking point to emerge from the game arrived after just five minutes, as Kieran Richardson sent Suarez sprawling inside the box.
Incidents
A spot kick was given, but the Sunderland man was spared a red card.
Dalglish admits to being left a little bemused by the decision to only book Richardson, but he refused to condemn referee Phil Dowd.
He said: "You don't want to see people sent off, but I don't know what the rule book says. Was it a clear cut goal scoring opportunity, with Luis Suarez one-on-one with the goalkeeper - I don't see it any clearer than that.
"Then they say you are taking the ball away from goal and it's a yellow card. If you want to go round the goalkeeper, it's very difficult not to go away from goal.
"I think nine-and-a-half out of 10 would have given the red card, but we don't want to see anybody sent off.
"It must be this game, every time something happens - the beachball, a free-kick last year and the penalty kick last year up at the Stadium of Light, that was outside the box."
Larsson pegs back Reds
The Reds' Uruguayan striker should have opened the scoring at Anfield inside seven minutes, after he was sent tumbling inside the box under pressure from Kieran Richardson.
Surprisingly, he was well off target from 12 yards and sent his penalty sailing high into the stands.
Suarez was, however, able to open the scoring on 12 minutes when he stooped to glance a clever free-kick from Charlie Adam past Simon Mignolet.
Liverpool proceeded to control the remainder of the first half, with Stewart Downing clipping the bar at one stage as Kenny Dalglish's side attempted to turn the screw.
In the end they were made to pay for their failure to turn possession into goals as Sunderland hit back 12 minutes into the second half.
Larsson was left all alone at the back post and, when the ball floated his way, he crashed an acrobatic volley past a stranded Pepe Reina to secure a share of the spoils.
Controversy
Recent fixtures between these two teams have not been without controversy, with Darren Bent's beachball-assisted strike two years ago and last season a mistaken backpass which led to Dirk Kuyt scoring at Anfield and a dubious penalty for Liverpool's first at the Stadium of Light.
The 2012 edition was no different as after just five minutes the hosts were awarded a penalty when Suarez charged down Richardson's clearance, with a slight suspicion of an arm, on the halfway line only to go down in the area under the challenge of Richardson after rounding Mignolet.
Referee Phil Dowd showed the left-back a yellow card but Suarez blazed the penalty over.
But the £22.8million striker was not to be denied and, when Adam whipped in a low, inswinging free-kick from the right in the 12th minute he nipped in at the near post to head in off the legs of Mignolet.
Carroll thought he had opened his account for the season when he chested down Adam's left-wing cross before smashing home but the flag had already gone up for the slightest of touches on Anton Ferdinand.
Adam had Mignolet clutching his 35-yard shot at the second attempt while Downing was even closer, crashing a shot off the crossbar after a driving run down the inside-right channel from five yards inside his own half.
But somehow, from a position of dominance, Liverpool appeared to lose their way and the interval certainly put paid to their dwindling momentum.
Foothold
Sunderland seized their opportunity to gain a foothold in the game and should have equalised in the 53rd minute when John Flanagan's mistake at right-back allowed Larsson, one of Sunderland's new signings, to get forward and cross but Asamoah Gyan headed straight at Reina from close range.
If that was a warning to Dalglish's side they did not heed it as, just four minutes later, they conceded an equaliser.
Ahmed Elmohamady hung up a deep cross to the far post and Larsson found himself in enough space to superbly volley back across goal and past Reina.
From that point it appeared Sunderland were the most likely winners.
Liverpool regained more control late on as they pushed for a winner but with Suarez having been replaced it was left to Carroll to lead the line.
The £35million club-record signing huffed and puffed a lot but could fashion only half-chances as his side laboured.
It is, of course, early days but these are the sort of matches Dalglish knows his side have to win this season if they are to haul themselves back into the top four.
Surprisingly, he was well off target from 12 yards and sent his penalty sailing high into the stands.
Suarez was, however, able to open the scoring on 12 minutes when he stooped to glance a clever free-kick from Charlie Adam past Simon Mignolet.
Liverpool proceeded to control the remainder of the first half, with Stewart Downing clipping the bar at one stage as Kenny Dalglish's side attempted to turn the screw.
In the end they were made to pay for their failure to turn possession into goals as Sunderland hit back 12 minutes into the second half.
Larsson was left all alone at the back post and, when the ball floated his way, he crashed an acrobatic volley past a stranded Pepe Reina to secure a share of the spoils.
Controversy
Recent fixtures between these two teams have not been without controversy, with Darren Bent's beachball-assisted strike two years ago and last season a mistaken backpass which led to Dirk Kuyt scoring at Anfield and a dubious penalty for Liverpool's first at the Stadium of Light.
The 2012 edition was no different as after just five minutes the hosts were awarded a penalty when Suarez charged down Richardson's clearance, with a slight suspicion of an arm, on the halfway line only to go down in the area under the challenge of Richardson after rounding Mignolet.
Referee Phil Dowd showed the left-back a yellow card but Suarez blazed the penalty over.
But the £22.8million striker was not to be denied and, when Adam whipped in a low, inswinging free-kick from the right in the 12th minute he nipped in at the near post to head in off the legs of Mignolet.
Carroll thought he had opened his account for the season when he chested down Adam's left-wing cross before smashing home but the flag had already gone up for the slightest of touches on Anton Ferdinand.
Adam had Mignolet clutching his 35-yard shot at the second attempt while Downing was even closer, crashing a shot off the crossbar after a driving run down the inside-right channel from five yards inside his own half.
But somehow, from a position of dominance, Liverpool appeared to lose their way and the interval certainly put paid to their dwindling momentum.
Foothold
Sunderland seized their opportunity to gain a foothold in the game and should have equalised in the 53rd minute when John Flanagan's mistake at right-back allowed Larsson, one of Sunderland's new signings, to get forward and cross but Asamoah Gyan headed straight at Reina from close range.
If that was a warning to Dalglish's side they did not heed it as, just four minutes later, they conceded an equaliser.
Ahmed Elmohamady hung up a deep cross to the far post and Larsson found himself in enough space to superbly volley back across goal and past Reina.
From that point it appeared Sunderland were the most likely winners.
Liverpool regained more control late on as they pushed for a winner but with Suarez having been replaced it was left to Carroll to lead the line.
The £35million club-record signing huffed and puffed a lot but could fashion only half-chances as his side laboured.
It is, of course, early days but these are the sort of matches Dalglish knows his side have to win this season if they are to haul themselves back into the top four.
Poulsen seeks Reds exit
The Denmark international made little impact in his first season after being signed by former Reds boss Roy Hodgson last summer.
With current boss Kenny Dalglish now possessing a wealth of talent in the centre of midfield, Poulsen is surplus to requirements.
The former Juventus man accepts his misfortune, and will push for a transfer before the summer transfer window shuts on 31st August.
"My future needs to be resolved in August and preferably as soon as possible," Poulsen told Danish television station TV2.
"I have to get to play matches regularly. It's obvious that I would really like to play football."
With current boss Kenny Dalglish now possessing a wealth of talent in the centre of midfield, Poulsen is surplus to requirements.
The former Juventus man accepts his misfortune, and will push for a transfer before the summer transfer window shuts on 31st August.
"My future needs to be resolved in August and preferably as soon as possible," Poulsen told Danish television station TV2.
"I have to get to play matches regularly. It's obvious that I would really like to play football."
Dalglish eyes Reds run
The club legend steered his beloved Reds to a steady finish after taking over from Roy Hodgson's turbulent stint, and has invested heavily into the side since.
Friday's capture of full-back Jose Enrique took Dalglish's spending to over £100million since January, prompting talk of a potential title charge.
Dalglish insists, though, that results must reflect their investments, and cooled talk of their Premier League hopes by suggesting cup success may be more feasible.
"We didn't pay over the odds for anybody, in my opinion, and we are not going to scream to get more money from the owners."
Kenny Dalglish Quotes of the week
"We will be judged by what happens on the pitch, rather than off it, but at the moment it's positive," Dalglish told the Daily Mirror.
"The five guys we've brought in have strengthened the quality and improved the depth of the squad, and we are a lot stronger than last year.
Cup hint
"You need to win a lot of games to win a championship, but you don't need to win as many to lift a cup, so we will just focus on getting as many positive results as we can."
In addition to Enrique, Liverpool have brought in Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and goalkeeper Alexander Doni.
Henderson and Downing cost a reported fee of £20million each, but Dalglish insists the club have got good value for their money.
"Our owners deserve great credit and I'm really excited about the season ahead," Dalglish said.
"We didn't pay over the odds for anybody, in my opinion, and we are not going to scream to get more money from the owners.
"We can talk to them and if they say yes, then we can try and get them. If they say no, we're pleased with the support they've already given us."
Friday's capture of full-back Jose Enrique took Dalglish's spending to over £100million since January, prompting talk of a potential title charge.
Dalglish insists, though, that results must reflect their investments, and cooled talk of their Premier League hopes by suggesting cup success may be more feasible.
"We didn't pay over the odds for anybody, in my opinion, and we are not going to scream to get more money from the owners."
Kenny Dalglish Quotes of the week
"We will be judged by what happens on the pitch, rather than off it, but at the moment it's positive," Dalglish told the Daily Mirror.
"The five guys we've brought in have strengthened the quality and improved the depth of the squad, and we are a lot stronger than last year.
Cup hint
"You need to win a lot of games to win a championship, but you don't need to win as many to lift a cup, so we will just focus on getting as many positive results as we can."
In addition to Enrique, Liverpool have brought in Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and goalkeeper Alexander Doni.
Henderson and Downing cost a reported fee of £20million each, but Dalglish insists the club have got good value for their money.
"Our owners deserve great credit and I'm really excited about the season ahead," Dalglish said.
"We didn't pay over the odds for anybody, in my opinion, and we are not going to scream to get more money from the owners.
"We can talk to them and if they say yes, then we can try and get them. If they say no, we're pleased with the support they've already given us."
Larsson eyes Reds scalp
The Black Cats travel to Anfield to face a new-look Reds, a club that the Sweden international has been a fan off since childhood.
However, the former Arsenal and Birmingham player told skysports.com that he will be hoping to dampen Liverpool's pre-season optimism on his Sunderland debut.
He said: "It is true that I have supported Liverpool since as long as I can remember, but that won't matter when I cross the white line tomorrow.
"People back home (in Sweden) always follow English football on TV and my dad supported Liverpool so naturally I followed suit and supported them myself as well.
"I grew up admiring the likes of Michael Owen, Robbie Fowler and Steven Gerrard, so to play against some of them during my career has been great.
"Anfield is always a great place to play football and I remember the first time I played there, for Arsenal, and it was amazing to just soak up the atmosphere whilst sat on the bench.
"It's always nice to go there and it will be no different tomorrow, so hopefully we can play well and cause them a few problems."
However, the former Arsenal and Birmingham player told skysports.com that he will be hoping to dampen Liverpool's pre-season optimism on his Sunderland debut.
He said: "It is true that I have supported Liverpool since as long as I can remember, but that won't matter when I cross the white line tomorrow.
"People back home (in Sweden) always follow English football on TV and my dad supported Liverpool so naturally I followed suit and supported them myself as well.
"I grew up admiring the likes of Michael Owen, Robbie Fowler and Steven Gerrard, so to play against some of them during my career has been great.
"Anfield is always a great place to play football and I remember the first time I played there, for Arsenal, and it was amazing to just soak up the atmosphere whilst sat on the bench.
"It's always nice to go there and it will be no different tomorrow, so hopefully we can play well and cause them a few problems."
Enrique seals Liverpool move
Enrique has been linked with a move to Anfield for much of the summer and has now finalised the switch ahead of the opening game of the season against Sunderland on Saturday.
The Reds had been searching for a senior left-back after England international Glen Johnson was deployed in the role for parts of last term.
The signing is Kenny Dalglish's fifth capture of the summer and Enrique is delighted to be linking up with the Merseyside club.
Really happy
"This is one of the happiest days of my life," the Spaniard told the club's official website.
"I have come to one of the biggest clubs not just in England, but in the world. I am really, really happy.
"They have won a lot of things including the Champions League. They have amazing players and I hope to win things here.
"Of course I am looking forward to playing in front of the Kop. Everybody speaks about the fans here and they are amazing. I am looking forward to it. I hope it will be this weekend, but if not I can wait."
The 25-year-old says he is ready for immediate action for Liverpool and wants to help his new club mount a challenge for the Premier League title.
He added: "If the manager needs me, I am ready to play.
"I have already played for Newcastle in pre-season, not every game but two or three games and I am fit and if the manager needs me, I am ready to play.
"My ambition is win everything with Liverpool. This year we won't play in the Champions League, so the most important thing is to try and win the league."
The Reds had been searching for a senior left-back after England international Glen Johnson was deployed in the role for parts of last term.
The signing is Kenny Dalglish's fifth capture of the summer and Enrique is delighted to be linking up with the Merseyside club.
Really happy
"This is one of the happiest days of my life," the Spaniard told the club's official website.
"I have come to one of the biggest clubs not just in England, but in the world. I am really, really happy.
"They have won a lot of things including the Champions League. They have amazing players and I hope to win things here.
"Of course I am looking forward to playing in front of the Kop. Everybody speaks about the fans here and they are amazing. I am looking forward to it. I hope it will be this weekend, but if not I can wait."
The 25-year-old says he is ready for immediate action for Liverpool and wants to help his new club mount a challenge for the Premier League title.
He added: "If the manager needs me, I am ready to play.
"I have already played for Newcastle in pre-season, not every game but two or three games and I am fit and if the manager needs me, I am ready to play.
"My ambition is win everything with Liverpool. This year we won't play in the Champions League, so the most important thing is to try and win the league."
Prepares to face old club
The £16million capture left the Black Cats over the summer and in an unlikely twist of fate the club's season opener is against his old side.
Although Henderson remains a Sunderland fan, he insists he will be looking to help Liverpool begin the new Premier League campaign on a winning note.
The 21-year-old midfielder accepts it was a hard decision to leave his boyhood club, although he could not pass up the opportunity to play alongside the likes of Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez.
Focus
"I've got to treat it as a normal game, it's the only thing I can do," explained Henderson. "I had a great time at Sunderland and it was a hard decision, but a massive opportunity to come to Liverpool.
"Sunderland has been a massive part of my career, I have supported them my whole life and I will carry on doing so.
"I have still got a lot of friends at the club. But now I just need to focus on the job at Liverpool.
"I felt as though the time was right to move to a massive club and play with players like Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez.
"My family and friends just want what is best for me and whatever decision I made, they were happy with that - but I'm sure they will want Sunderland to win."
Although Henderson remains a Sunderland fan, he insists he will be looking to help Liverpool begin the new Premier League campaign on a winning note.
The 21-year-old midfielder accepts it was a hard decision to leave his boyhood club, although he could not pass up the opportunity to play alongside the likes of Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez.
Focus
"I've got to treat it as a normal game, it's the only thing I can do," explained Henderson. "I had a great time at Sunderland and it was a hard decision, but a massive opportunity to come to Liverpool.
"Sunderland has been a massive part of my career, I have supported them my whole life and I will carry on doing so.
"I have still got a lot of friends at the club. But now I just need to focus on the job at Liverpool.
"I felt as though the time was right to move to a massive club and play with players like Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez.
"My family and friends just want what is best for me and whatever decision I made, they were happy with that - but I'm sure they will want Sunderland to win."
Trotters in bid for Ngog
Bolton boss Owen Coyle is in the market for attacking additions after Daniel Sturridge returned to Chelsea after an impressive loan spell and Johan Elmander joined Galatasaray.
Turkish forward Tuncay is close to finalising a loan move to the Reebok Stadium and Coyle is now stepping up his interest in Ngog.
The 22-year-old has scored 19 goals in 94 appearances for Liverpool since he moved to Anfield from Paris St Germain three years ago.
He was linked with a move to Sunderland earlier in the summer as part of the deal which saw England midfielder Jordan Henderson join Liverpool.
However, he could now be offered the opportunity to link up with Bolton after the club made a bid in the region of £4million for the Frenchman.
Coyle has also been linked with Birmingham City's Cameron Jerome as he tries to improve his options up front before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
Turkish forward Tuncay is close to finalising a loan move to the Reebok Stadium and Coyle is now stepping up his interest in Ngog.
The 22-year-old has scored 19 goals in 94 appearances for Liverpool since he moved to Anfield from Paris St Germain three years ago.
He was linked with a move to Sunderland earlier in the summer as part of the deal which saw England midfielder Jordan Henderson join Liverpool.
However, he could now be offered the opportunity to link up with Bolton after the club made a bid in the region of £4million for the Frenchman.
Coyle has also been linked with Birmingham City's Cameron Jerome as he tries to improve his options up front before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
Enrique agreement confirmed
The 25-year-old is entering the final year of his contract at St James' Park and has made it clear he does not want to extend the deal.
He had attracted reported interest from several clubs this summer but the Reds have beaten others to the punch, with Enrique set to negotiate personal terms and undergo a medical at the club later on Thursday.
Manager Kenny Dalglish has been looking for a left-back since selling Paul Konchesky to Leicester last month.
Agreed
A statement on Liverpool's official website said: "Liverpool FC confirmed today that they had agreed a fee with Newcastle United for the transfer of Jose Enrique.
"The club have now been given permission to discuss personal terms with the player, who will travel to Liverpool to undergo a medical."
Enrique joined Newcastle from Villarreal in 2007 and has emerged as a key figure in the Magpies defence.
However, he recently incurred the wrath of Toon manager Alan Pardew after hitting out at the club's transfer policy on Twitter.
The stopper had said Newcastle's recent transfer deals were undermining the club's chances of challenging for honours in the Premier League, having lost star men Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan to Liverpool and West Ham respectively.
Newcastle will be keen to fill the void left by Enrique if he completes the Liverpool move, having already expressed an interest in PSV defender Erik Pieters.
He had attracted reported interest from several clubs this summer but the Reds have beaten others to the punch, with Enrique set to negotiate personal terms and undergo a medical at the club later on Thursday.
Manager Kenny Dalglish has been looking for a left-back since selling Paul Konchesky to Leicester last month.
Agreed
A statement on Liverpool's official website said: "Liverpool FC confirmed today that they had agreed a fee with Newcastle United for the transfer of Jose Enrique.
"The club have now been given permission to discuss personal terms with the player, who will travel to Liverpool to undergo a medical."
Enrique joined Newcastle from Villarreal in 2007 and has emerged as a key figure in the Magpies defence.
However, he recently incurred the wrath of Toon manager Alan Pardew after hitting out at the club's transfer policy on Twitter.
The stopper had said Newcastle's recent transfer deals were undermining the club's chances of challenging for honours in the Premier League, having lost star men Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan to Liverpool and West Ham respectively.
Newcastle will be keen to fill the void left by Enrique if he completes the Liverpool move, having already expressed an interest in PSV defender Erik Pieters.
Wilson open to loan switch
The 19-year-old made just eight appearances last term following his switch to Anfield from Rangers a year ago.
The young defender partnered Gary Caldwell in Scotland's 2-1 win over Denmark but knows he will need more game time at club level if he hopes to retain a place in boss Craig Levein's plans.
Asked if a loan switch could be an option, Wilson said: "It's been mentioned but there have been no offers yet so it's difficult to try to decide what's going to happen.
"If there are no offers, you can't really do much about it so I'm just working hard and trying to keep a part of things. But we've got a lot of players now at Liverpool and it's going to be difficult.
"There are five centre-backs there and we are all of good quality so the manager has a difficult decision and whatever his decision is, I'll respect that.
"I didn't play enough last season and I wouldn't really like to repeat that next season. I can only do what I'm doing.
"If it's enough, it's enough. If it's not, I'll just need to work that bit harder."
Versatile
Rangers have been linked with a move to bring back Wilson on loan and he admits he would be open to returning to Ibrox.
He said: "I don't see why not, if the option was there. But the option's not there so it's difficult for me to comment on that.
"I'll consider any team, once the offers come in I'll evaluate them and decide what's best for me and my career."
Wilson was used in an unfamiliar left-back role last season and says he would be more than happy to demonstrate his versatility once again if it meant nailing down a place in Kenny Dalglish's side.
He said: "I'm a centre-back but if the manager decides that he wants me at left-back I can't have any problems with that and I'll do it no problem at all.
"If he wants to put me in goal, I'll go in goal. I'm one of those kind of players who always gives my all for the team wherever I'm chosen to play."
On his national team hopes, Wilson added: "If I'm playing more regularly it's better for me and it's better for the team.
"He (Levein) says he obviously wants me to be playing a bit more regularly and I can fully understand that. I want that myself.
"He's not said to me that I have to be playing but obviously it helps if I'm out there playing."
The young defender partnered Gary Caldwell in Scotland's 2-1 win over Denmark but knows he will need more game time at club level if he hopes to retain a place in boss Craig Levein's plans.
Asked if a loan switch could be an option, Wilson said: "It's been mentioned but there have been no offers yet so it's difficult to try to decide what's going to happen.
"If there are no offers, you can't really do much about it so I'm just working hard and trying to keep a part of things. But we've got a lot of players now at Liverpool and it's going to be difficult.
"There are five centre-backs there and we are all of good quality so the manager has a difficult decision and whatever his decision is, I'll respect that.
"I didn't play enough last season and I wouldn't really like to repeat that next season. I can only do what I'm doing.
"If it's enough, it's enough. If it's not, I'll just need to work that bit harder."
Versatile
Rangers have been linked with a move to bring back Wilson on loan and he admits he would be open to returning to Ibrox.
He said: "I don't see why not, if the option was there. But the option's not there so it's difficult for me to comment on that.
"I'll consider any team, once the offers come in I'll evaluate them and decide what's best for me and my career."
Wilson was used in an unfamiliar left-back role last season and says he would be more than happy to demonstrate his versatility once again if it meant nailing down a place in Kenny Dalglish's side.
He said: "I'm a centre-back but if the manager decides that he wants me at left-back I can't have any problems with that and I'll do it no problem at all.
"If he wants to put me in goal, I'll go in goal. I'm one of those kind of players who always gives my all for the team wherever I'm chosen to play."
On his national team hopes, Wilson added: "If I'm playing more regularly it's better for me and it's better for the team.
"He (Levein) says he obviously wants me to be playing a bit more regularly and I can fully understand that. I want that myself.
"He's not said to me that I have to be playing but obviously it helps if I'm out there playing."
Reds agree Enrique deal
The 25-year-old has made it clear he does not want to extend his current contract at St James' Park, which has just one year left.
A number of clubs had been linked, but Liverpool were always reportedly in pole position and now they have made their move.
It is understood that a fee of £6million has been agreed between the two clubs and Enrique will now travel to Merseyside for a medical.
Newcastle will now be left hunting for a new left-back although they have already expressed an interest in PSV Eindhoven's Erik Pieters.
A number of clubs had been linked, but Liverpool were always reportedly in pole position and now they have made their move.
It is understood that a fee of £6million has been agreed between the two clubs and Enrique will now travel to Merseyside for a medical.
Newcastle will now be left hunting for a new left-back although they have already expressed an interest in PSV Eindhoven's Erik Pieters.
Aquilani happy to stay
Aquilani spent last season on-loan at Juventus, and has since been linked with moves back to Italy with AC Milan and Fiorentina.
Kenny Dalglish has suggested the 27-year-old could still have a role to play with the Reds, and the former Roma star admits he does feel wanted at Anfield.
After scoring the winner for his country against Spain on Wednesday, Aquilani confirmed that staying at Liverpool was very much an option for him.
"All I can say is that there has been a lot of talk," he said.
"I wasn't following the Italian media much over the summer, but whatever happens I am at a great club like Liverpool.
"I'd love to make my mark at Liverpool. The transfer market is open until August 31, so we'll see what happens.
"Obviously I would take the offer of a permanent move into consideration with Liverpool."
Kenny Dalglish has suggested the 27-year-old could still have a role to play with the Reds, and the former Roma star admits he does feel wanted at Anfield.
After scoring the winner for his country against Spain on Wednesday, Aquilani confirmed that staying at Liverpool was very much an option for him.
"All I can say is that there has been a lot of talk," he said.
"I wasn't following the Italian media much over the summer, but whatever happens I am at a great club like Liverpool.
"I'd love to make my mark at Liverpool. The transfer market is open until August 31, so we'll see what happens.
"Obviously I would take the offer of a permanent move into consideration with Liverpool."
Lucas ready for action
The Brazilian has not had as much of a summer break as some members of Kenny Dalglish's squad after representing his country at the Copa America.
It has also been speculated whether Lucas will have a place in the Liverpool team, despite being voted the club's Player of The Season in the last campaign.
Midfielders Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson, as well as winger Stewart Downing, have been signed to mean competition for places is fierce ahead of this Saturday's visit of Sunderland.
But having played 45 minutes in last weekend's pre-season friendly against Valencia, Lucas told Liverpool's official website: "I'm fit. I didn't have a full holiday and was training with the national team, so it won't be a problem for me to be available for Saturday.
"I am really excited to be back and really looking forward to the new season. We're in a good mood at the moment and hopefully we'll start well on Saturday."
Lucas was sent off during Brazil's quarter-final exit from the Copa America to eventual finalists Paraguay.
It has also been speculated whether Lucas will have a place in the Liverpool team, despite being voted the club's Player of The Season in the last campaign.
Midfielders Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson, as well as winger Stewart Downing, have been signed to mean competition for places is fierce ahead of this Saturday's visit of Sunderland.
But having played 45 minutes in last weekend's pre-season friendly against Valencia, Lucas told Liverpool's official website: "I'm fit. I didn't have a full holiday and was training with the national team, so it won't be a problem for me to be available for Saturday.
"I am really excited to be back and really looking forward to the new season. We're in a good mood at the moment and hopefully we'll start well on Saturday."
Lucas was sent off during Brazil's quarter-final exit from the Copa America to eventual finalists Paraguay.
Dalglish backs Henderson
Liverpool moved quickly to sign the midfielder in the close season, sealing a £20million deal for his services.
At just 20, Henderson had become a feature of Steve Bruce's midfield and had earned himself an England cap.
Opposition
Fate has now ensured that Sunderland will provide the opposition in his and Liverpool's opening game of the season at Anfield.
Nevertheless, Dalglish hopes the Black Cats fans will show some understanding to a player they have been able to profit so handsomely off.
"Obviously Jordan is one they've lost. He's a good player who they would have been understandably reluctant to let go," he told the Liverpool Echo.
Animosity
"But sometimes as a manager you've got to be philosophical and say if a player wants to go we should let him leave. I don't think [Sunderland fans] will have any animosity towards Jordan.
"Sunderland will be a difficult fixture. There's been a major turnaround of players there over the summer.
"We'll need to do a bit of revision and see which players Steve has brought in and let go. Their team will be very different to the one we faced back in March."
At just 20, Henderson had become a feature of Steve Bruce's midfield and had earned himself an England cap.
Opposition
Fate has now ensured that Sunderland will provide the opposition in his and Liverpool's opening game of the season at Anfield.
Nevertheless, Dalglish hopes the Black Cats fans will show some understanding to a player they have been able to profit so handsomely off.
"Obviously Jordan is one they've lost. He's a good player who they would have been understandably reluctant to let go," he told the Liverpool Echo.
Animosity
"But sometimes as a manager you've got to be philosophical and say if a player wants to go we should let him leave. I don't think [Sunderland fans] will have any animosity towards Jordan.
"Sunderland will be a difficult fixture. There's been a major turnaround of players there over the summer.
"We'll need to do a bit of revision and see which players Steve has brought in and let go. Their team will be very different to the one we faced back in March."
Milan an option for Aquilani
The Liverpool midfielder has been continually linked with a move back to his homeland during the summer.
Aquilani was loaned to Juventus last year where he excelled but they have deemed Liverpool's asking price for the Italy international too high.
Just last month Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry gushed with praise on Twitter about the £20million midfielder as he played an instrumental role in their 6-3 win over a Malaysian XI in Kuala Lumpur.
"He's a major player, who was in the Italian national team even before his injury. We will have to see if he remains at Liverpool or whether there will be a suitor from Italy."
Franco Zavaglia Quotes of the week
The former Roma player has been impressive during pre-season and despite the incessant speculation over his future, has performed with distinction over that period.
Transfer
Franco Zavaglia, Aquilani's agent, believes a transfer to Milan could provide the ideal solution for all concerned but insists it would not be a problem if he had to stay at Liverpool.
"Alberto has played almost every pre-season friendly with Liverpool," he told Radio Sportiva.
"He's a major player, who was in the Italian national team even before his injury. We will have to see if he remains at Liverpool or whether there will be a suitor from Italy.
"He has three more years left on his contract and if he has to remain at Liverpool that will not be a problem."
Fiorentina had entered the race for his signature earlier this summer but they wanted him on a loan, rather than paying the reported £9million it would take to snare him on a full-time basis.
Juventus
And after playing for Juventus last year on a similar arrangement, the 27-year-old favours a more permanent solution to his future.
"The problem with the deal with Fiorentina was that it was a loan deal, we are looking for a permanent solution and one that will make everyone happy," added Zavaglia.
"If Fiorentina had signed Aquilani, they would have been able to build their team around him. Juventus have considered the asking price too high, so we have not been able to do a deal there.
"As for AC Milan, that could be an idea."
Aquilani was loaned to Juventus last year where he excelled but they have deemed Liverpool's asking price for the Italy international too high.
Just last month Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry gushed with praise on Twitter about the £20million midfielder as he played an instrumental role in their 6-3 win over a Malaysian XI in Kuala Lumpur.
"He's a major player, who was in the Italian national team even before his injury. We will have to see if he remains at Liverpool or whether there will be a suitor from Italy."
Franco Zavaglia Quotes of the week
The former Roma player has been impressive during pre-season and despite the incessant speculation over his future, has performed with distinction over that period.
Transfer
Franco Zavaglia, Aquilani's agent, believes a transfer to Milan could provide the ideal solution for all concerned but insists it would not be a problem if he had to stay at Liverpool.
"Alberto has played almost every pre-season friendly with Liverpool," he told Radio Sportiva.
"He's a major player, who was in the Italian national team even before his injury. We will have to see if he remains at Liverpool or whether there will be a suitor from Italy.
"He has three more years left on his contract and if he has to remain at Liverpool that will not be a problem."
Fiorentina had entered the race for his signature earlier this summer but they wanted him on a loan, rather than paying the reported £9million it would take to snare him on a full-time basis.
Juventus
And after playing for Juventus last year on a similar arrangement, the 27-year-old favours a more permanent solution to his future.
"The problem with the deal with Fiorentina was that it was a loan deal, we are looking for a permanent solution and one that will make everyone happy," added Zavaglia.
"If Fiorentina had signed Aquilani, they would have been able to build their team around him. Juventus have considered the asking price too high, so we have not been able to do a deal there.
"As for AC Milan, that could be an idea."
Fully-fit Carroll ready to go
The striker left Newcastle in a record-breaking £35million move in January, but was only able to show flashes of his ability in the second half of last season as a result of injuries.
Carroll has enjoyed a positive pre-season, scoring three goals, and ahead of Premier League season-opener against Sunderland, Dalglish thinks the benefits are evident.
The Liverpool boss said in LFC Magazine: "Andy's injury meant he was only able to train at 100 per cent on rare occasions last season.
"He even played in some games when we knew he wasn't going to be at his best.
"We wanted to improve the squad this summer and we think we've done that by bringing in the individuals we have."
Kenny Dalglish Quotes of the week
Strong
"Now he is fully over that knock and has been able to do a lot more on the training field in pre-season.
"That's showed in the games he has played over the last few weeks. He's fitter and scoring some goals."
Liverpool will begin the season with a new-look and expensively-assembled squad following the signings of the likes of Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson.
Dalglish is not thought to be finished in the transfer window, but he is pleased with the acquisitions he has made so far.
He said: "We wanted to improve the squad this summer and we think we've done that by bringing in the individuals we have.
Carroll: Dalglish believes the former Newcastle star is now over his injury problems
.
Perfect
"We want to compete at the highest level possible and we feel those players can help us do that."
Downing moved from Aston Villa as Dalglish sought to solve Liverpool's long-standing deficiencies in wide areas.
And the England international is looking forward to playing alongside Luis Suarez, who has now returned to club training after winning the Copa America with Uruguay, in a squad he thinks has the potential to be the 'real deal'.
Downing said: "I remember seeing the 3-0 win over Manchester City and thinking, 'Liverpool, they could be the real deal.'
"Bringing him (Dalglish) was the right appointment at the time. With everything that had happened over the previous 18 months or so, it was the perfect opportunity for him to come in."
Carroll has enjoyed a positive pre-season, scoring three goals, and ahead of Premier League season-opener against Sunderland, Dalglish thinks the benefits are evident.
The Liverpool boss said in LFC Magazine: "Andy's injury meant he was only able to train at 100 per cent on rare occasions last season.
"He even played in some games when we knew he wasn't going to be at his best.
"We wanted to improve the squad this summer and we think we've done that by bringing in the individuals we have."
Kenny Dalglish Quotes of the week
Strong
"Now he is fully over that knock and has been able to do a lot more on the training field in pre-season.
"That's showed in the games he has played over the last few weeks. He's fitter and scoring some goals."
Liverpool will begin the season with a new-look and expensively-assembled squad following the signings of the likes of Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson.
Dalglish is not thought to be finished in the transfer window, but he is pleased with the acquisitions he has made so far.
He said: "We wanted to improve the squad this summer and we think we've done that by bringing in the individuals we have.
Carroll: Dalglish believes the former Newcastle star is now over his injury problems
.
Perfect
"We want to compete at the highest level possible and we feel those players can help us do that."
Downing moved from Aston Villa as Dalglish sought to solve Liverpool's long-standing deficiencies in wide areas.
And the England international is looking forward to playing alongside Luis Suarez, who has now returned to club training after winning the Copa America with Uruguay, in a squad he thinks has the potential to be the 'real deal'.
Downing said: "I remember seeing the 3-0 win over Manchester City and thinking, 'Liverpool, they could be the real deal.'
"Bringing him (Dalglish) was the right appointment at the time. With everything that had happened over the previous 18 months or so, it was the perfect opportunity for him to come in."
Carra backs his skipper
The 31-year-old Liverpool talisman has been out since March having undergone surgery on his groin.
And his much anticipated return to full fitness has been delayed by a further month after the injury was infected.
Critics
Critics have started to question how instrumental the England international will fare in the coming campaign as his injuries now appear more frequent.
Yet, Carragher, who has won a constellation of medals alongside his Liverpool-born team-mate, is in no doubt he will return to his majestic best.
"There's still plenty more to come from Steven Gerrard," Carragher told the Liverpool Echo.
Best
"He's one of the best, if not the best, player to play in the Premier League over the past decade.
"When Stevie is back playing it will be like we've just signed a great new player.
"He's still got four or five years ahead of him to play for Liverpool."
And his much anticipated return to full fitness has been delayed by a further month after the injury was infected.
Critics
Critics have started to question how instrumental the England international will fare in the coming campaign as his injuries now appear more frequent.
Yet, Carragher, who has won a constellation of medals alongside his Liverpool-born team-mate, is in no doubt he will return to his majestic best.
"There's still plenty more to come from Steven Gerrard," Carragher told the Liverpool Echo.
Best
"He's one of the best, if not the best, player to play in the Premier League over the past decade.
"When Stevie is back playing it will be like we've just signed a great new player.
"He's still got four or five years ahead of him to play for Liverpool."
Carroll link-up excites Downing
Downing has joined Liverpool from Aston Villa this summer and is excited about the prospect of lining up alongside the likes of Carroll and fellow England colleague Steven Gerrard.
He is also well acquainted with Jamie Carragher and admits the strong British contingent at Anfield was one of the factors that lured him to Merseyside.
"The British nucleus at Anfield was an attraction to me. If you have a mixture of the foreign lads and the British, then it is a good mix, I think," explained the winger.
"I knew Steven and Carra before I came and they said, 'Good atmosphere, great set of lads, we work very hard'. The manager [Kenny Dalglish] is demanding, and that is something I wanted to sample.
"Once I knew I had a chance of coming to Anfield, I spoke to him but he didn't really have to sell the club to me. It is a pull already.
"It has been brilliant and training has been really good. It is a challenge to get in this team and do well."
Downing has enjoyed linking up with Carroll for England and the pair have been included in Fabio Capello's squad for the friendly against Holland on Wednesday, which is in doubt due to the riots in London.
Brilliant
He is a big admirer of the former Newcastle striker and feels, with Luis Suarez also making an impressive start to his Reds career last season, Liverpool have a dangerous attacking unit.
"I have played a few games with Andy, for England and in pre-season, and I know his strengths - he's very impressive," Downing added.
"If you get the ball in the box then, nine times out of 10, he will get on the end of it. He is a big target.
"I watched Suarez too, in the Copa America, and he was brilliant. I think he and Carroll will suit each other, and if we work at it then I think we can strike up a few good partnerships."
Downing's immediate focus is on trying to perform well for England, having struggled to cement a regular role in the squad over the past few years.
"I hope I can become an integral part for England," he admitted. "So far, I would say my England career has been frustrating.
"I have been in and out, in and out, done well and then not played in games. There is no point moaning about it.
"I want to make the step up now into the first XI and not just be in the squad. I feel part of things, more so of late. For two years I was injured and then didn't get picked. It is nice to be back in."
He is also well acquainted with Jamie Carragher and admits the strong British contingent at Anfield was one of the factors that lured him to Merseyside.
"The British nucleus at Anfield was an attraction to me. If you have a mixture of the foreign lads and the British, then it is a good mix, I think," explained the winger.
"I knew Steven and Carra before I came and they said, 'Good atmosphere, great set of lads, we work very hard'. The manager [Kenny Dalglish] is demanding, and that is something I wanted to sample.
"Once I knew I had a chance of coming to Anfield, I spoke to him but he didn't really have to sell the club to me. It is a pull already.
"It has been brilliant and training has been really good. It is a challenge to get in this team and do well."
Downing has enjoyed linking up with Carroll for England and the pair have been included in Fabio Capello's squad for the friendly against Holland on Wednesday, which is in doubt due to the riots in London.
Brilliant
He is a big admirer of the former Newcastle striker and feels, with Luis Suarez also making an impressive start to his Reds career last season, Liverpool have a dangerous attacking unit.
"I have played a few games with Andy, for England and in pre-season, and I know his strengths - he's very impressive," Downing added.
"If you get the ball in the box then, nine times out of 10, he will get on the end of it. He is a big target.
"I watched Suarez too, in the Copa America, and he was brilliant. I think he and Carroll will suit each other, and if we work at it then I think we can strike up a few good partnerships."
Downing's immediate focus is on trying to perform well for England, having struggled to cement a regular role in the squad over the past few years.
"I hope I can become an integral part for England," he admitted. "So far, I would say my England career has been frustrating.
"I have been in and out, in and out, done well and then not played in games. There is no point moaning about it.
"I want to make the step up now into the first XI and not just be in the squad. I feel part of things, more so of late. For two years I was injured and then didn't get picked. It is nice to be back in."
Hull hope to win Ayala chase
The Spaniard impressed during a loan spell at the KC Stadium last season and the Tigers are keen to bring Ayala back on a permanent basis.
A fee in the region of £850,000 is reported to have been agreed with Liverpool and Hull are now looking to meet the player's demands.
However, there have been claims that Premier League new boys Swansea City and the Tigers' Championship rivals Ipswich Town are looking to hijack the deal.
Shakespeare is aware of other interest in Ayala, but remains optimistic that the youngster can be added to Nigel Pearson's squad.
"We believe we have made a fair offer but we're not sure where Daniel and his agent see him next," said Shakespeare in the Hull Daily Mail.
"We would love to have him back on board here but there is another club involved."
Ipswich boss Paul Jewell is keen to improve his squad this week ahead of his side's game at home to Hull on Saturday.
A fee in the region of £850,000 is reported to have been agreed with Liverpool and Hull are now looking to meet the player's demands.
However, there have been claims that Premier League new boys Swansea City and the Tigers' Championship rivals Ipswich Town are looking to hijack the deal.
Shakespeare is aware of other interest in Ayala, but remains optimistic that the youngster can be added to Nigel Pearson's squad.
"We believe we have made a fair offer but we're not sure where Daniel and his agent see him next," said Shakespeare in the Hull Daily Mail.
"We would love to have him back on board here but there is another club involved."
Ipswich boss Paul Jewell is keen to improve his squad this week ahead of his side's game at home to Hull on Saturday.
Poulsen ready to fight
Kenny Dalglish has increased his midfield options with the signing of Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson this summer.
These new recruits will augment a squad already bulging with midfielders in Lucas, Steven Gerrard and Jay Spearing.
Indeed, Dalglish's transfer business has prompted talk that the Denmark international would be sacrificed to balance the books.
But the 30-year-old, who has two years left on his contract, is in no hurry to leave Anfield.
"I have been really happy and I want to play, that's my goal for the future," Poulsen said.
"I am happy there with my family, it's a good club and they treat me really well. I hope I can change my situation and play more.
"I haven't heard anything from Liverpool; I am trying to be fit for the new season. So I think they want me at the club and I am happy to be there and unless they tell me something different, I am a Liverpool player for the coming season."
These new recruits will augment a squad already bulging with midfielders in Lucas, Steven Gerrard and Jay Spearing.
Indeed, Dalglish's transfer business has prompted talk that the Denmark international would be sacrificed to balance the books.
But the 30-year-old, who has two years left on his contract, is in no hurry to leave Anfield.
"I have been really happy and I want to play, that's my goal for the future," Poulsen said.
"I am happy there with my family, it's a good club and they treat me really well. I hope I can change my situation and play more.
"I haven't heard anything from Liverpool; I am trying to be fit for the new season. So I think they want me at the club and I am happy to be there and unless they tell me something different, I am a Liverpool player for the coming season."
No Milan contact for Aquilani
Aquilani has been the subject of speculation over a move away from Anfield all summer, with Fiorentina failing to sign the midfielder last week.
Milan now appears to be the another possible destination for the Italian, who made the move to Liverpool from Roma for £20million almost two years ago.
The 27-year-old spent last season on loan at Juventus but the Reds may be willing to sell to a prospective club for £10million.
No contact
Aquilani's agent, Franco Zavaglia told calciomercato.it that, despite all the speculation, Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has not been in contact.
He said: "At the moment, Milan haven't made a move.
"There have been Galliani's words but no other signals.
"I'm not saying what type of offer my client can get from Milan, whether it is a loan deal or a permanent move. We will wait."
Milan now appears to be the another possible destination for the Italian, who made the move to Liverpool from Roma for £20million almost two years ago.
The 27-year-old spent last season on loan at Juventus but the Reds may be willing to sell to a prospective club for £10million.
No contact
Aquilani's agent, Franco Zavaglia told calciomercato.it that, despite all the speculation, Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has not been in contact.
He said: "At the moment, Milan haven't made a move.
"There have been Galliani's words but no other signals.
"I'm not saying what type of offer my client can get from Milan, whether it is a loan deal or a permanent move. We will wait."
Skrtel upbeat on quick return
The Slovakian has been out of action with a calf muscle injury and has been ruled out of his national side's game against Austria on Wednesday.
He was an ever present for the Reds last season, who had the sixth best defensive record in the league.
Kenny Dalglish's side have conceded 15 goals in their six friendlies this summer, which included a 3-0 defeat to Championship side Hull City.
Skrtel told his personal website that he is doing his best to close in on a return to action.
He said: "In the last few days I have been running on a treadmill and even did some jogging outdoors.
"I believe that everything will go according to plan and I will soon be fully fit.
"I am expecting to be able to increase the burden every day and hopefully join the team as soon as possible.
"However, everything depends on how the leg will react."
New signings
Meanwhile, Skrtel is confident that the club's new signings will improve the squad.
Doni, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson have joined from Roma, Blackpool, Aston Villa and Sunderland respectively.
Skrtel said: "I've been familiar with Stewart since I played against him a couple of years ago.
"I was at right-back and he was on the wing giving me a really hard time.
"Charlie had a great season with Blackpool and I am really glad he is here.
"Jordan is still very young but he has already won a call-up to the national side which speaks for itself."
He was an ever present for the Reds last season, who had the sixth best defensive record in the league.
Kenny Dalglish's side have conceded 15 goals in their six friendlies this summer, which included a 3-0 defeat to Championship side Hull City.
Skrtel told his personal website that he is doing his best to close in on a return to action.
He said: "In the last few days I have been running on a treadmill and even did some jogging outdoors.
"I believe that everything will go according to plan and I will soon be fully fit.
"I am expecting to be able to increase the burden every day and hopefully join the team as soon as possible.
"However, everything depends on how the leg will react."
New signings
Meanwhile, Skrtel is confident that the club's new signings will improve the squad.
Doni, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson have joined from Roma, Blackpool, Aston Villa and Sunderland respectively.
Skrtel said: "I've been familiar with Stewart since I played against him a couple of years ago.
"I was at right-back and he was on the wing giving me a really hard time.
"Charlie had a great season with Blackpool and I am really glad he is here.
"Jordan is still very young but he has already won a call-up to the national side which speaks for itself."
Kuyt expects Carroll hot streak
The £35million man demonstrated flashes of his ability in the second half of last season after completing his record-breaking move to Anfield, but he was frustrated by injury.
Carroll, though, scored his third pre-season goal when netting against Valencia on Saturday and Kuyt thinks it is a sign of things to come from his team-mate.
Ahead of next Saturday's campaign-opener against Sunderland, the Dutchman said in the Liverpool Echo: "Andy is going to be top quality for us this season.
"It was difficult for him when he arrived because he had an injury. Then he played a few games and did very well but got another injury.
Competition
"Now he's had a full pre-season and has scored in his last two games. Hopefully he'll get another one next weekend.
"Andy is very strong in the air and you can also play it into his feet. He's a top striker and I'm sure he will do well and score a lot of goals for us."
It is a new-look Liverpool squad this season following the signings of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Alexander Doni.
The arrivals have added competition for places at Anfield and it has been speculated that Kuyt's place will come under threat.
"I am very happy with the signings we have made this summer and it was good for them to have their first game at Anfield," he said.
Progress
"Everyone wants to play, but rivalry is something that in my opinion belongs to a club such as Liverpool. That's what should happen, you have to double up in every position.
"We want to progress and move forward and to do that you need more than 11 good players."
Meanwhile, manager Kenny Dalglish has reiterated his frustration at an international fixture list in the week before the start of the Premier League.
He said in the Daily Mirror: "We have got a week to survive before next weekend and some friendly internationals to survive.
"We could do without the friendlies, but we will just have to put up with it."
Carroll, though, scored his third pre-season goal when netting against Valencia on Saturday and Kuyt thinks it is a sign of things to come from his team-mate.
Ahead of next Saturday's campaign-opener against Sunderland, the Dutchman said in the Liverpool Echo: "Andy is going to be top quality for us this season.
"It was difficult for him when he arrived because he had an injury. Then he played a few games and did very well but got another injury.
Competition
"Now he's had a full pre-season and has scored in his last two games. Hopefully he'll get another one next weekend.
"Andy is very strong in the air and you can also play it into his feet. He's a top striker and I'm sure he will do well and score a lot of goals for us."
It is a new-look Liverpool squad this season following the signings of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Alexander Doni.
The arrivals have added competition for places at Anfield and it has been speculated that Kuyt's place will come under threat.
"I am very happy with the signings we have made this summer and it was good for them to have their first game at Anfield," he said.
Progress
"Everyone wants to play, but rivalry is something that in my opinion belongs to a club such as Liverpool. That's what should happen, you have to double up in every position.
"We want to progress and move forward and to do that you need more than 11 good players."
Meanwhile, manager Kenny Dalglish has reiterated his frustration at an international fixture list in the week before the start of the Premier League.
He said in the Daily Mirror: "We have got a week to survive before next weekend and some friendly internationals to survive.
"We could do without the friendlies, but we will just have to put up with it."
Pardew retains Jose hope
The Spanish full-back has just one year left on his current deal at St James' Park and is refusing to pen a new deal.
Pardew, though, insists the Liverpool target could yet remain with the club rather than departing before the end of the transfer window.
"I keep looking at him and smiling, hoping he is going to stay," Pardew said after their last pre-season friendly against Fiorentina was abandoned because of water logging.
"He smiles but hasn't signed a contract yet.
"He was terrific against a very good player [against Fiorentina] and showed why I want to keep him."
Meanwhile, Pardew is understood to have flown to Holland at the weekend to run the rule over PSV Eindhoven full-back Erik Pieters - who is a contender to replace Enrique, should he leave in the coming weeks.
Pardew, though, insists the Liverpool target could yet remain with the club rather than departing before the end of the transfer window.
"I keep looking at him and smiling, hoping he is going to stay," Pardew said after their last pre-season friendly against Fiorentina was abandoned because of water logging.
"He smiles but hasn't signed a contract yet.
"He was terrific against a very good player [against Fiorentina] and showed why I want to keep him."
Meanwhile, Pardew is understood to have flown to Holland at the weekend to run the rule over PSV Eindhoven full-back Erik Pieters - who is a contender to replace Enrique, should he leave in the coming weeks.
Suarez can eclipse Tevez
The Uruguayan proved a smash hit at Anfield in the second half of last season following his January arrival from Ajax.
Suarez also lit up the Copa America as his country won the competition this summer, and Gerrard thinks his club-mate can prove to be an even better player than Carlos Tevez.
The Liverpool skipper said: "Luis is a special player, he really is. He's so good. His movement, his touch, his awareness and the way he takes his goals is fantastic.
"It's natural you are going to compare him to Tevez because of his build, his shape and the way he plays. But I think he can go on to be even better."
Suarez also lit up the Copa America as his country won the competition this summer, and Gerrard thinks his club-mate can prove to be an even better player than Carlos Tevez.
The Liverpool skipper said: "Luis is a special player, he really is. He's so good. His movement, his touch, his awareness and the way he takes his goals is fantastic.
"It's natural you are going to compare him to Tevez because of his build, his shape and the way he plays. But I think he can go on to be even better."
Henderson to hide sentiment
The 21-year-old completed a move from the Black Cats to the Reds for an undisclosed fee earlier this summer, with the deal believed to be worth in excess of £20million.
Mackem Henderson remains a Sunderland fan, though, and predicts a bright future for the club without him, but he is wary of a backlash from the away support at Anfield on Saturday.
"They had good players when I was there as well so they are going in the right direction," Henderson said.
"I'm looking forward to the game and hopefully it's a good day for Liverpool. It might be a bit strange but I've got a job to do for Liverpool now."
Jordan Henderson Quotes of the week
"Hopefully that can help save me any stick from the crowd - although I'm not sure as that's up for them to decide upon.
'Job to do'
"I've got good friends there still. I'm looking forward to the game and hopefully it's a good day for Liverpool. It might be a bit strange but I've got a job to do for Liverpool now."
Touted as a long-term successor for 31-year-old club captain Steven Gerrard, Henderson rejects talk of their similarities.
He said: "There's a lot of good players here and Steven is one of them. He has been one of the best players in the world for many years now.
"But I don't model myself on him or anyone. I try and do my own thing on the pitch and will look to keep going in the right direction."
Meanwhile, fellow summer signing Charlie Adam admits he has former club Blackpool to thank for providing him with the chance to play in the Premier League.
Excelled
Adam helped the Tangerines to promotion from the Championship and excelled in the top flight during a rollercoaster season, doing enough to seal a move to Anfield plus a bumper wage packet.
"I've always been confident in my own ability to play at the highest level," Adam told The Sunday Mirror.
"It doesn't matter how much money you earn, playing is the most important thing. "
Charlie Adam Quotes of the week
"But up until last year when Blackpool were in the Premier League I had never been given the opportunity to prove it.
"There's no better feeling than walking out at three o'clock on a Saturday to play football. Every footballer would tell you that - or they should do.
"It doesn't matter how much money you earn, playing is the most important thing.
"That's what I have looked forward to since I was a boy and hopefully I'll get the opportunity to do that and be successful at Liverpool."
Mackem Henderson remains a Sunderland fan, though, and predicts a bright future for the club without him, but he is wary of a backlash from the away support at Anfield on Saturday.
"They had good players when I was there as well so they are going in the right direction," Henderson said.
"I'm looking forward to the game and hopefully it's a good day for Liverpool. It might be a bit strange but I've got a job to do for Liverpool now."
Jordan Henderson Quotes of the week
"Hopefully that can help save me any stick from the crowd - although I'm not sure as that's up for them to decide upon.
'Job to do'
"I've got good friends there still. I'm looking forward to the game and hopefully it's a good day for Liverpool. It might be a bit strange but I've got a job to do for Liverpool now."
Touted as a long-term successor for 31-year-old club captain Steven Gerrard, Henderson rejects talk of their similarities.
He said: "There's a lot of good players here and Steven is one of them. He has been one of the best players in the world for many years now.
"But I don't model myself on him or anyone. I try and do my own thing on the pitch and will look to keep going in the right direction."
Meanwhile, fellow summer signing Charlie Adam admits he has former club Blackpool to thank for providing him with the chance to play in the Premier League.
Excelled
Adam helped the Tangerines to promotion from the Championship and excelled in the top flight during a rollercoaster season, doing enough to seal a move to Anfield plus a bumper wage packet.
"I've always been confident in my own ability to play at the highest level," Adam told The Sunday Mirror.
"It doesn't matter how much money you earn, playing is the most important thing. "
Charlie Adam Quotes of the week
"But up until last year when Blackpool were in the Premier League I had never been given the opportunity to prove it.
"There's no better feeling than walking out at three o'clock on a Saturday to play football. Every footballer would tell you that - or they should do.
"It doesn't matter how much money you earn, playing is the most important thing.
"That's what I have looked forward to since I was a boy and hopefully I'll get the opportunity to do that and be successful at Liverpool."
Jovanovic joins Anderlecht
The Belgians announced earlier this week that the two clubs had struck a deal for the 30-year-old, with a successful medical all that was needed for the transfer to be finalised.
Liverpool have now confirmed on their official Twitter page that Jovanovic has completed his move to Anderlecht.
The winger agreed to join Liverpool when Rafa Benitez was still in charge before eventually linking up with the Reds last summer after Roy Hodgson had become manager.
But he failed to make a significant impact at Anfield and was given few opportunities to impress by either Hodgson or his replacement Kenny Dalglish.
He will now hope that a return to Belgium will revive his club career, having previously played in the country for Standard Liege.
Liverpool have now confirmed on their official Twitter page that Jovanovic has completed his move to Anderlecht.
The winger agreed to join Liverpool when Rafa Benitez was still in charge before eventually linking up with the Reds last summer after Roy Hodgson had become manager.
But he failed to make a significant impact at Anfield and was given few opportunities to impress by either Hodgson or his replacement Kenny Dalglish.
He will now hope that a return to Belgium will revive his club career, having previously played in the country for Standard Liege.
Gerrard excited by arrivals
The Reds have spent big in the transfer market this summer with manager Kenny Dalglish adding no less than four new faces to his squad.
The Anfield club have added the likes of English talent Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing from Sunderland and Aston Villa respectively along with landing Blackpool ace Charlie Adam and Brazilian keeper Alexander Doni from Roma.
Gerrard, who is set to miss the start of the new Premier League season, believes the signings will be beneficial because they will add strength in depth ahead of a long and hard campaign.
Signings
"I believe we've made some very good signings this summer, with Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Doni all coming in," he told the club's official website.
"Hopefully there will be one or two more arriving before the transfer window closes. You always want competition for places because it's a long season.
"Obviously it gives the manager more options and it also pushes the players on because they know not everyone can start every game."
The Anfield club have added the likes of English talent Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing from Sunderland and Aston Villa respectively along with landing Blackpool ace Charlie Adam and Brazilian keeper Alexander Doni from Roma.
Gerrard, who is set to miss the start of the new Premier League season, believes the signings will be beneficial because they will add strength in depth ahead of a long and hard campaign.
Signings
"I believe we've made some very good signings this summer, with Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Doni all coming in," he told the club's official website.
"Hopefully there will be one or two more arriving before the transfer window closes. You always want competition for places because it's a long season.
"Obviously it gives the manager more options and it also pushes the players on because they know not everyone can start every game."
Kenny waiting on Suarez
After helping Uruguay lift the Copa America this summer, Suarez will make a delayed return to pre-season training with the Reds next week.
It remains to be seen whether the 24-year-old will be involved for Liverpool's opening clash of the Premier League campaign against Sunderland at Anfield next Saturday.
And Dalglish says he will make a decision over the hitman when he has had a chance to look him over.
Thoughts
He said: "Luis will be back next week some time and we'll start thinking about him then. We'll just see when he comes in.
"He's had a fantastic summer in the Copa America both as an individual and as a team player.
"We'll see how he is when he comes in and have a discussion with him. We can't predict what he is going to be like."
It remains to be seen whether the 24-year-old will be involved for Liverpool's opening clash of the Premier League campaign against Sunderland at Anfield next Saturday.
And Dalglish says he will make a decision over the hitman when he has had a chance to look him over.
Thoughts
He said: "Luis will be back next week some time and we'll start thinking about him then. We'll just see when he comes in.
"He's had a fantastic summer in the Copa America both as an individual and as a team player.
"We'll see how he is when he comes in and have a discussion with him. We can't predict what he is going to be like."
Downing unfazed by price tag
The England international has been Kenny Dalglish's marquee signing of the summer as the Scot continues his extensive squad rebuilding at Anfield.
Downing was voted Aston Villa's Player of the Season last term and it is hoped his rich supply from the left flank will allow record signing Andy Carroll to flourish.
"Just because of the fee, it doesn't mean I have to change. I'm being brought in to do what I did at Aston Villa, whether that's on the left or right."
Stewart Downing Quotes of the week
"It's about picking up where I finished off last season with Aston Villa, carrying on my form and not doing anything differently," said Downing.
"Just because of the fee, it doesn't mean I have to change. I'm being brought in to do what I did at Aston Villa, whether that's on the left or right.
Consistent
"I'm not sure where the manager sees me playing but I just want to do well for Liverpool. Last season was probably my most consistent season and I just want that to continue.
"It's a big season for me personally and the club and I want to get in the England team as well. Hopefully Liverpool will see the best of me."
At 27, Downing is now approaching his peak years as a footballer which he hopes coincide with a fruitful spell for Liverpool.
Champions League
The Reds failed to qualify for the Champions League last year and a return to Europe's elite competition is a primary objective for the club.
"This club has high expectations and it's a club that deserves to be in Europe," he added.
"In the past they've done very well and I'm sure the players and the manager will want to do well for the owners and get into that top bracket."
Downing was voted Aston Villa's Player of the Season last term and it is hoped his rich supply from the left flank will allow record signing Andy Carroll to flourish.
"Just because of the fee, it doesn't mean I have to change. I'm being brought in to do what I did at Aston Villa, whether that's on the left or right."
Stewart Downing Quotes of the week
"It's about picking up where I finished off last season with Aston Villa, carrying on my form and not doing anything differently," said Downing.
"Just because of the fee, it doesn't mean I have to change. I'm being brought in to do what I did at Aston Villa, whether that's on the left or right.
Consistent
"I'm not sure where the manager sees me playing but I just want to do well for Liverpool. Last season was probably my most consistent season and I just want that to continue.
"It's a big season for me personally and the club and I want to get in the England team as well. Hopefully Liverpool will see the best of me."
At 27, Downing is now approaching his peak years as a footballer which he hopes coincide with a fruitful spell for Liverpool.
Champions League
The Reds failed to qualify for the Champions League last year and a return to Europe's elite competition is a primary objective for the club.
"This club has high expectations and it's a club that deserves to be in Europe," he added.
"In the past they've done very well and I'm sure the players and the manager will want to do well for the owners and get into that top bracket."
Skrtel suffers setback
The Slovakia international was an ever-present in the Premier League last season, but Kenny Dalglish's club have let in 15 goals in five pre-season games in the centre-back's absence.
Skrtel has not played in any of Liverpool's friendlies due to an ongoing calf injury and has pulled out of an international against Austria next week as a result.
He is now receiving medical treatment, but no date has been set for his comeback ahead of Liverpool's first game of the season against Sunderland on 13th August.
Treatment
"I suffered an injury setback on Friday," Skrtel wrote on his personal website at a time when Liverpool are being linked with a transfer for a new centre-back.
"I felt strong pain in my leg so I am back with the doctors receiving treatment.
"I really don't know how long will it take to heal. I am doing my best to be back as soon as possible."
Dalglish, though, has been boosted by the return to fitness of injury-prone Brazilian full-back Fabio Aurelio.
The Liverpool boss said: "Fabio is training now but Martin has not joined in with us yet so we will wait and see."
Skrtel has not played in any of Liverpool's friendlies due to an ongoing calf injury and has pulled out of an international against Austria next week as a result.
He is now receiving medical treatment, but no date has been set for his comeback ahead of Liverpool's first game of the season against Sunderland on 13th August.
Treatment
"I suffered an injury setback on Friday," Skrtel wrote on his personal website at a time when Liverpool are being linked with a transfer for a new centre-back.
"I felt strong pain in my leg so I am back with the doctors receiving treatment.
"I really don't know how long will it take to heal. I am doing my best to be back as soon as possible."
Dalglish, though, has been boosted by the return to fitness of injury-prone Brazilian full-back Fabio Aurelio.
The Liverpool boss said: "Fabio is training now but Martin has not joined in with us yet so we will wait and see."
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