'I'm feeling better every day' - Origi on pre-season

Divock Origi is feeling fitter and stronger by the day as he strives to be in peak condition come the start of 2017-18.

The Liverpool forward marked his second appearance of pre-season with a goal on Wednesday, as the Reds defeated Crystal Palace 2-0 in Hong Kong to qualify for the final of the Premier League Asia Trophy.

Jürgen Klopp introduced Origi early in the second period and was rewarded with a match-sealing strike from the Belgian, who slotted home from close range with 20 minutes remaining after Philippe Coutinho had seen his shot blocked.

LFCTV GO: Origi slots home in Hong Kong

The heat and humidity in Hong Kong ensured the game represented a tough physical workout for both teams, and Origi talked up the positives of playing in such conditions.

“It’s very hot! I think we’re not used to playing in these conditions but it’s better for us - this way we prepare in difficult conditions and we’ll be ready for the season,” he told Liverpoolfc.com.

“It was a good game, it wasn’t perfect, but in pre-season you have to make steps and it was nice to play today.

“I’m making steps. Every training session, every game, I’m feeling better, so now it’s on me to prepare and to be as important as possible for the team.”

On what is required to make sure the benefits of pre-season are maximised, Origi explained: “You have to push yourself. That’s the thing in pre-season, to push yourself and get as fit as possible and try and do as much for the team as possible.

“Today I think we did a good job and now we can go to the two sessions tomorrow.”

LFCTV GO: Divock discusses Palace win and pre-season

The 22-year-old, who assisted Dominic Solanke’s opener before netting himself, was satisfied to get on the scoresheet against Palace and is looking forward to Saturday’s Premier League Asia Trophy final meeting with Leicester City.

“For me it’s just a matter of trying to enjoy the game and display my qualities,” Origi said.

“Today I enjoyed the game, even if it wasn’t perfect I’m happy to score and help the team and now onto the next game.”

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