Shelvey: Bring it on
Jonjo Shelvey has welcomed the extra competition for places in Liverpool's midfield and insists he's ready to rise to the challenge of trying win a place in Kenny Dalglish's side.
The Reds' ranks have been bolstered by the arrivals of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Alexander Doni and Stewart Downing so far this summer.
And rather than harbour any concerns opportunities to build on the 21 first-team appearances he made last season may be reduced, Shelvey is relishing the chance to fight for his place.
"I think it's good for the youths and reserves," he told Match Magazine. "The gaffer proved last season that he's not afraid to put young players in. We had six academy boys on the bench for one game, which is great for the club.
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"I like the transfer window. I want new players to come into the club because I want to work with the best players in the world. I always keep an eye on the moves because it can be really interesting."
As is the norm at this time of year, Liverpool have featured heavily in newspaper gossip columns - and Shelvey admits to being inundated with questions from friends about any potential transfer activity at the club.
The No.33 has a simple response for those seeking insider knowledge.
He explains: "I get a lot of mates asking, 'Is that true? Is this true?', when they see rumours about me or my teammates. I just have to say, 'I don't know - leave me alone!' They keep asking and asking, but I tell them they can't believe anything until it's happened.
"I think a lot of the stuff that gets printed are just rumours. Some will come true, but some are rubbish.
"We hear rumours all the time, but to be honest we don't get told much of what the club is doing until a deal has gone through."
In addition to the four major signings made this summer, Liverpool also swooped for Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll in January - and Shelvey is delighted with the transfer business the club have conducted.
"He (John Henry) told everyone his plans when he first came in and he's backed up every word," he said. "It's great to have an owner like that.
"His time at the club has started really well and all the players are looking forward to seeing him put his plans into action.
"The club has done some good business. January was exciting when Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll arrived. I was ill the day Andy signed and I remember waking up that morning, flicking on Sky Sports News and just wanting to get into training."