Jose: Let's make it a good start
Jose Enrique believes victory over Arsenal on Sunday would represent a satisfactory start to the season for Liverpool – but insists Brendan Rodgers' side will only continue to improve over the coming months.
The Reds have picked up a point from their opening two matches heading into tomorrow's Anfield clash with the Gunners after a pulsating 2-2 draw with Manchester City followed defeat at West Brom.
A win against Arsene Wenger's men would move Liverpool up to four points heading into the two-week international break - a reasonable start in the quest for a top-four finish, according to Enrique.
He told Liverpoolfc.com: "We have just one point in the league at the moment, but Real Madrid have started the same way - it doesn't mean anything (yet).
"If we win it will be a positive message for everyone. Four points in three games, two of which were against Manchester City and Arsenal, is okay I think.
"Of course after that, we have to focus and try to win more games. We have to try and finish in the top four - a team like Liverpool has to be there."
The game against Arsenal represents the second of three tough opening Anfield league fixtures for Liverpool.
Manchester United will be the next visitors to L4 in the top flight after the international break, but Enrique feels the Reds have what it takes to pick up the points.
"I think we play better against these types of teams," he explained. "We'll play at Anfield, which is good for us, and if we play as we did against Manchester City we can beat them [Arsenal].
"We have a good squad. Some players have left and some have come in, and we have a very good squad.
"Last season, we had a good squad too - we won a cup and got to the final of another. This year we have to focus more on the league. I know we have another tournament, the Europa League, but we have to focus on the league and try and get into the Champions League."
Arsenal have began the 2012-13 season with two goalless draws.
The Gunners sold captain Robin van Persie to Manchester United in the summer, but Enrique is well aware of their threat - particular that of summer signing, Santi Cazorla.
"Arsenal are an amazing team. They have sold a few players like Robin van Persie this year, and the year before they sold Samir Nasri, but they bring in new players and still finish in the top four.
"Santi Cazorla is a great player and one of the best. They have a great team.
"It's a pleasure to play against teams like this, but I think we can compete against these types of teams."
A knee complaint has restricted Enrique to just three appearances so far this season.
The full-back, however, is confident of soon being back in peak condition.
He said: "I'm okay. I have been training sometimes, but I am still feeling something. I am hoping I can be back [to full fitness] soon.
"I played all of the pre-season and got my fitness to a good level, and then when the season starts, I am still waiting to play.
"The most important thing now is try to get myself fit. After the Arsenal game we have a break, and so after that I think I will be back."