'Cole can make big contribution'

The Reds first-team coach was impressed with the midfielder's performances in the pre-season friendlies against Guangdong Sunray Cave and Malaysia XI on the club's Far East tour.

And Clarke is confident Cole can replicate that form when the new campaign gets underway in August and firmly establish himself in Kenny Dalglish's first-team plans.

"At the end of last season he was not getting in the team because the team were playing well," he said.

"But he trained great and obviously has gone away and had a good summer, worked hard and has come back really lively in training.

"He's looked good in both matches we've played so far and Joe Cole is a top international player. He's got a big contribution to make in the future.

"He's the same Joe Cole (I coached at Chelsea) just a couple of years older and a little bit wiser. He's always had a fantastic attitude, works hard in training and comes in with a smile on his face because he wants to do well. That's the position he's in. It has been difficult for him because he's not been involved but he keeps working hard and when he gets his chance it is up to him to take that chance.

"The better players are always positive, they see the bigger picture and understand what's going on. Although they want to play every game they don't have a divine right to do that, they have to reach levels. And when they do that then they'll get in the team, they understand that."

Video: Cole on fitness, signings and a big season ahead

Clarke was in charge of Liverpool for Saturday's 6-3 victory over a Malaysia XI after Dalglish had returned to the UK.

As against Guangdong Sunray Cave, 11 changes were made by the Reds at half-time to ensure as many players as possible were given minutes on the pitch - and Clarke confirms he had agreed upon team selection with the manager before he departed Asia.

"We had a little chat before he went and obviously we discuss the team selection all the time," he said.

"We looked at the two teams who played in China and wanted to play a couple of different things and different combinations so before Kenny left I already knew what the two starting 11s would be. Obviously you don't know if there are going to be injuries or things that would change it. We were delighted with the workout."

Meanwhile, Clarke admits to being bowled over by the level of support Liverpool received on their Asian tour.

Hordes of fanatical Kopites cheered the team's every move in China, Malaysia and Singapore, making for incredible scenes that will live long in the memory.

"You always hear about the great support Liverpool have in the Far East, but to come and witness it in China and in Malaysia has been something special," said Clarke.

"It has been a bit surprising to be honest.

"You'd think all the top clubs, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal, would have an equal share out here but when Liverpool were top of the tree in the 70s and early 80s that is when television first came into Asia. Everyone wanted to follow the successful team and that was Liverpool and so that generation are all big Liverpool fans, their children are big Liverpool fans and we have got fantastic fan base out here."