Joe Gomez: I've missed the hard graft
The hard work of pre-season can often be a chore but this summer it's nothing but a pleasure for Joe Gomez.
Two years on from joining the club and impressing so much on tour that he began the 2015-16 campaign in the starting XI, the defender is fit and ready to show his worth all over again.
And while the annual demands before a new campaign can push players to the limit, Gomez is counting his blessings.
“Obviously I missed last pre-season and it’s my first under this gaffer,” the No.12 told Liverpoolfc.com.
“It has been tough but it’s good for me and I’m enjoying every single bit of it. It’s difficult but these are the bits that I missed, the hard graft. I’m just happy to be on the pitch.”
LFCTV GO: Gomez speaks at open training session
Liverpool were relatively comfortable in seeing off Crystal Palace on Wednesday night as Dominic Solanke and Divock Origi scored the goals to secure a place in the Premier League Asia Trophy final tonight.
Jürgen Klopp’s side will face Leicester City in the Hong Kong showpiece and Gomez echoed the sentiments of the manager and many of the squad regarding the benefits of facing top-flight teams.
“It puts us in good stead for what we can expect,” he added.
“It’s pre-season and the Premier League tempo might be different but it’s good we’re getting that Premier League opposition early doors and we’re getting used to it.”
Click here for information on how to follow the Premier League Asia Trophy final.