Flanagan keen to impress Liverpool boss Rodgers

31 Jul 2012 14:58:00

The 19-year-old is enjoying playing under the ex-Swansea City tactician and insists he is ready to challenge Glen Johnson for a starting berth in the Red’s backline

Liverpool youngster Jon Flanagan is hoping to impress Brendan Rodgers and force his way in to contention for a regular starting spot this season.

The 19-year-old is aware he faces stiff competition at right-back but believes his versatility could aid his attempts to establish himself at Anfield.

"Towards the end of last season I picked up a knee injury but I'm ready to go now," Flanagan told the club’s official website. "I was working hard throughout the summer to get fit.

"There's good competition here for the full-back spots. I'm up against one of the best right-backs in the world in Glen [Johnson]. But training with him every day helps me progress and it's great for me to be able to learn from him.

"If there's an injury I've got to be ready to slot in and I can play on either side at the back."

The defender played in all three of Liverpool’s pre-season matches in their tour of the United States, against Toronto FC, Roma and Tottenham, and praised the impact Rodgers has had since his arrival from Swansea City over the summer.

"It was great to be out there [on the pre-season tour] and be part of the training camp,” he added.

"I like the way the new manager is doing things and his style of play. I've learned a lot and I'm looking forward to learning more from him.

"He has come in and given all the young lads a massive lift. He has said that if we do well there will be opportunities for us and that's good to hear.

"It was great to hear his plans and everyone wants to be a part of it."

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