Allen: New additions spur everybody on
The addition of nine new players to the Liverpool squad this summer will have a considerable benefit on two fronts for Brendan Rodgers and his players, according to midfielder Joe Allen.
Mario Balotelli's switch from AC Milan, confirmed on Monday, further increased the number of deals conducted by the Reds since a second-place finish at the conclusion of 2013-14.
Rodgers has strengthened all areas of the team, supplementing an attack that plundered 101 Barclays Premier League goals last season and bolstering his defensive ranks too.
Allen envisages a double set of positives from the business - the individual ability that the recruits can bring and the knock-on effect of causing those around them to improve.
"It is credit to the club and all the staff who have worked so hard this summer to strengthen the squad on the back of a positive season," the Welshman commented.
"It shows our ambition to take that next step going forward. All the additions have settled in quickly. That's been a big positive so far.
"They've brought plenty of pace and they are going to be a big threat for us throughout the year. Our squad has great balance now throughout, strength in depth, and there is certainly going to be competition for places in every area.
"Top players like playing with top players - it brings out the best in people. It's great to have competition throughout the squad. It spurs everyone on to improve and perform at their best."
On Balotelli specifically, Allen said: "I'm excited to work with him. He's a player with massive quality. He has that spontaneous edge to him. He's going to give us a massive threat. It's a signing that is another great addition."
Liverpool's No.24 was a diligent performer during a 3-1 defeat by Manchester City on Monday, providing an energetic and forward-thinking presence from a left-of-central spot.
Analysing the encounter with the side that edged out the Reds for the Premier League title in May, Allen's natural disappointment blended with intent to learn from the occasion.
"We're disappointed with the result," the 24-year-old reflected. "But all of us are excited going forward and we're looking to bounce back with a good result at Spurs.
"City is a tough place for anyone to go to. We'll analyse certain things, look to improve and look forward to going to White Hart Lane for another big game.
"It's small margins at this level. It's not just negatives to take away from the game but unfortunately we conceded three goals. They punished lapses in concentration. They were clinical.
"On the balance of play before the first goal it was pretty even, but they put their chances away and after the first goal we were always climbing a mountain. The timing of the first goal, just before half-time, was disappointing.
"Last season we had a great season but, when we analysed it, we conceded goals too easily at times. It's something we're looking to rectify, but throughout the season we will see a big improvement in that area.
"We've come to the Etihad three times since I've been here now, played well but unfortunately not come away with the results we were looking for.
"But we are certainly on the right path. It's just tough against a team like Manchester City, who have such quality in attack."