Skrtel relishing Coates challenge
Martin Skrtel insists he is ready for the challenge after Liverpool bolstered their defensive ranks with the recruitment of Sebastian Coates on Tuesday night.
The Uruguayan's arrival means competition for places in the Reds' backline will be as tough as ever - but our No.37 remains adamant he is up for the fight to secure a starting berth.
Skrtel said: "A new centre back has come in and I think that's good for the club and for all of us.
"Liverpool is a big club and if you play for a club like this you have to expect to have to fight for your position.
"We all need to do that every day in training. Having a new player here can help me and help the club.
"I will fight and try to do my best to help the team."
Click on the image below to watch the first interview with our new signing
Skrtel marked his first league appearance of the season with a goal in last Saturday's 3-1 win over Bolton.
The Slovakia international gave an assured display at right-back following an injury to Martin Kelly.
He admits it is not a role that comes naturally to him but is more than willing to make a personal sacrifice in favour of team gain.
"It's not my position but I just tried to be the best I could," he said.
"I'll play wherever I'm needed by the manager. It was a great game and a great result for us.
"I'm really happy with the goal. It was a great corner from Charlie Adam and Daniel Agger created the space for me to score.
"I'm happy to play every game I can for this club. The start we've made to the season shows the quality we now have in the squad."