Jonjo's joy at new contract
As the ink was still drying on his new contract, Jonjo Shelvey sat down with Liverpoolfc.com at Melwood to discuss his delight at signing a long-term deal with the Reds.
The midfielder also outlined his aims for the new campaign and explained why he is enjoying pre-season training sessions under new manager Brendan Rodgers.
Here's what Shelvey had to say...
Jonjo, congratulations. You must be delighted with your new deal...
I am really happy. Last season I was itching to try and push for a new contract. Now it's happened and I am ready to kick on again now.
How much of a boost is it for you to know the club see you as part of the future?
It's lovely to know I am in the plans for the future. At the moment, it's just about getting things right each day and proving myself to the gaffer here. The gaffer and his way of playing will suit me down to the ground and hopefully I can be in his plans.
You've had a few weeks to reflect now - how do you look back on your form last season?
I think going away (on loan) to Blackpool helped me a lot. It gave me some experience, I scored some goals and I came back a better player. Kenny gave me a chance towards the latter stages of the season and I thought I showed what I can do.
In what ways do you think you've improved at Liverpool?
Tactically I have become a lot better and technically too. When you're working with people like Steven Gerrard and people like that, you're learning things day in, day out and it's an honour.
Are there any areas you'd like to improve upon?
There are still things in my game I want to work on and I'm going to keep doing that. On the physical side of my game, I'm going to be in the gym every day - and I've got to speak to the gaffer to see what else I can work on.
So you've got a new deal - what is your aim for the new season?
To start playing more games. I want to get into the first team and be in the starting XI on a permanent basis. That's going to be hard, but it's something I've got to work towards.
You touched upon it earlier, but you've had about a week now of working with Brendan Rodgers. What are your first impressions of him?
I think he's great. With all the passing drills he's doing, he's encouraging us to play all the time which is nice for a football player. Instead of doing a lot of long-distance running and things like that in pre-season, everything has been with a ball, which is more enjoyable. Everyone is enjoying training and looking forward to coming in.
Is that passing type of game something you feel will bring out the best in you?
I think so. I think it'll sharpen me up. The gaffer's also got a big thing about pressing the other teams hard, so I am trying to work on that side of my game as well.
What's the mood like amongst the rest of the lads with the new manager in charge?
Everyone is buzzing because he likes to play football. That's what people want to do and what fans want to see - nice, attractive football. Hopefully we can bring that to Anfield this year.
You'll be off on tour with the club next week. How much are you looking forward to that?
I am. I've never been to America before, so it'll be good to go over there. Being in Boston where the owners are from will be great too.
It's important to give fans worldwide the chance to see the players in action, isn't it?
Yes, and we've got a few good games over there against Tottenham, Roma and Toronto. It'll be a decent tour!
Overall, are you looking forward to this new season?
Yes, I'm very much looking forward to it. I'm buzzing to still be at Liverpool and I want to show the fans what I can do.