Flanno: I'm ready to take chance
Jon Flanagan insists he is determined to show new manager Brendan Rodgers exactly what he's capable of as he aims to secure more first-team football in 2012-13.
The 19-year-old acknowledges he faces stiff competition for the right-back berth from Glen Johnson and Martin Kelly, but he's ready to seize upon any chances that come his way.
"Towards the end of last season I picked up a knee injury but I'm ready to go now," said Flanagan. "I was working hard throughout the summer to get fit.
"There's good competition here for the full-back spots. I'm up against one of the best right-backs in the world in Glen. But training with him every day helps me progress and it's great for me to be able to learn from him.
"If there's an injury I've got to be ready to slot in and I can play on either side at the back."
Flanagan figured heavily in Liverpool's North America tour, playing in all three matches against Toronto, Roma and Tottenham.
He was one of several youngsters to be handed a chance to impress by Rodgers - and the teenager believes the Reds' starlets are enjoying the new gaffer's hands on approach to training.
Flanagan said: "It was great to be out there (on the pre-season tour) and be part of the training camp. I like the way the new manager is doing things and his style of play. I've learned a lot and I'm looking forward to learning more from him.
"He has come in and given all the young lads a massive lift. He has said that if we do well there will be opportunities for us and that's good to hear. It was great to hear his plans and everyone wants to be a part of it."
Get your tickets for Liverpool's Anfield clashes with FC Gomel and Bayer Leverkusen now>>