Bogdan: Simon sets a really high level
Adam Bogdan insists he is not fazed by the big challenge that lies ahead of him as he aims to become a more than able deputy for Simon Mignolet.
The Hungarian's long-term goal is to become Liverpool's last line of defence, but he is aware of the hard work that will be required to make that dream a reality in future years.
As Brendan Rodgers’ charges prepare to kick off another campaign by facing Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium, Liverpool’s new No.34 is ready and waiting if needed.
“Four weeks have passed since I joined Liverpool and I am enjoying every minute of it,” Bogdan said.
“It’s hard, it’s at a different level [from before] but I have a chance to improve here every day.
“The bar is really high in every training session, not just on the grass but in the gym as well because you work hard every day.
“Simon sets a really high level so we need to match that and that’s the way I will improve. At the same time, I go home with a smile on my face every day so it’s a fantastic place to work.
“At Bolton I managed to play some games in the last three years but at Liverpool it’s going to be really hard because I’ve got to fight for my place this year.
"Again, there is really strong competition in the squad, everywhere in the team, so that’s a massive difference. But again on a Saturday, Sunday or Monday sometimes, it’s going to be unbelievable playing against some really good teams in front of all the supporters in full houses.”
Bogdan has a great deal of respect for Mignolet and is relishing the opportunity to improve as a goalkeeper working alongside the Kop’s custodian.
Strong and healthy competition in every position is what Rodgers wants from his squad and the Hungarian insists he will be ready when a chance arises.
He added: “I hope so, that is the plan. I have to have the mindset and that’s what I’m doing and working for every day.”
Bogdan believes the squad are ready to mount what can hopefully prove to be a successful campaign at Anfield, and reports that he and the other new signings have settled in well.
He said: “We had a really good break in the summer. It wasn’t long but everybody had a good break before pre-season and our trip to Asia and Australia. Although there was lots of travelling, we managed to do our work and again the quality was really there.
“We managed to win most of our games in pre-season so I really hope and feel that we are ready.
“The lads who are new that have come into the squad have settled straight away and put in really good performances, so of course we have additional strengths and we hope we can finish higher than last season.
“We are working very hard with the aim of trying to finish as high as possible. Of course, when you are at a team like Liverpool you want to win things so we will do our best.”
The Budapest-born stopper also spoke about his respect for Rodgers and how the training sessions at Melwood are very enjoyable.
He explained: “Every manager is different and every manager has a different way of working. I think the manager is working in a very controlled way in terms of training sessions because he trusts his colleagues.
“I’ve never heard him raising the voice yet and he always explains a situation, so I really enjoy it and I think it’s a good way of working.”