Skrtel keen to keep defensive stability
Though Liverpool could not find a goal of their own in Saturday's Merseyside derby, Martin Skrtel took satisfaction from earning a clean sheet with another resolute defensive display.
Deploying a back three, the Reds have conceded only six goals in 10 matches so far in 2015, recording a fifth shut-out in eight games with a 0-0 against Everton at Goodison Park.
Roberto Martinez's side were restricted to a single shot on target at their own ground, and that arriving as the clock ticked into the 86th minute of the Barclays Premier League contest.
"We have changed the system to a back three and it is working for us," Skrtel told Liverpoolfc.com. "We are defending much better. It suits us. I hope we can carry on this way in the future.
"I'm happy for the team, because we have improved our defending. There was a lot of criticism. Since New Year, we have only conceded one goal from open play - that's great and I'm happy about that."
Confronted by a combination of power and trickery in the Blues' attack, Emre Can turned in yet another eye-catching performance as part of Brendan Rodgers' backline yesterday.
The versatile German has taken to his new defensive position with ease during the past six weeks, which has not gone unnoticed by the man stationed to his left in the line-up.
Skrtel commented: "He came to Liverpool as a midfielder but for the last few games he has played as a centre-back and defender. He has done well and I'm happy for him."
Liverpool created the greater chances in the 224th Merseyside derby, with youngster Jordon Ibe unlucky not to notch with a stunning drive from long range that shuddered a post.
The Reds' No.37 said: "It was a great shot and he was unlucky to only hit the post. I have to say, he's done well. He has come back from loan and it's not easy for young players to get into a game like this.
"But he has done well and was absolutely superb. There weren't many chances. Unfortunately, we couldn't score the goal and get three points.
"We came here to get the three points and only got one. We were dominating the game, moved the ball well and hit the post.
"At the end of the game, we allowed them a counter-attack and Simon [Mignolet] made a great save. Obviously we wanted to get three points, but the main thing is that we didn't lose."
Next on the fixture list for Rodgers' charges is an important meeting on Tuesday night with Tottenham Hotspur, who have moved four points ahead of Liverpool in the top four race.
"It's massive," admitted Skrtel. "Tottenham are a few points in front of us. It's going to be a big game, now we have a few days to get ready for it.
"I believe and hope we can beat them and get three points. But every single game is important for us. We'll go game by game, try to get as many points as we can and try to finish in the top four."