Tuesday 22 July 2014 14:41, UK
England midfielder Jordan Henderson says Liverpool can look forward to the new season with confidence.
Henderson and the rest of the Liverpool squad have begun their pre-season tour of the USA with their new signings amongst them.
Luis Suarez is one high-profile departure following his move to Barcelona, but Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana, Emre Can and Lazar Markovic will all be looking to impress boss Brendan Rodgers following their summer arrivals.
More could be on the way, with Loic Remy set to join the striking options. Sky Sports News’ Kavel Solhekol confirmed the QPR striker arrived at the Liverpool hotel on Monday night ahead of a medical, and Belgium striker Divock Origi is believed to be on his way too.
Dejan Lovren, the Southampton centre-back, is being linked with a move to Anfield as well, and Henderson says there is a buzz in the squad ahead of the tour and the new season.
“There’s been some great signings and there’s talk of a few more. And in the first day’s training today everyone looks sharp. Like I say – there’s some quality signings come in,” he told Sky Sports News.
“Hopefully we can keep going from last season, keep going with the confidence.
“And we (must) make sure the new lads settle in, that everyone’s getting on and that the team spirit is just as strong as last season.”
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Liverpool finished second in the Premier League last season, and that means the return of Champions League football.
“It’s amazing to be playing against the best teams in the world,” Henderson said. “Everyone is looking forward to that, but everyone is looking forward to the start of the Premier League just as much.
“It’s such a great league – and hopefully we can take it one step further than last time.”
Henderson meanwhile says he would love to captain England one day - but does not expect to be asked to replace his club colleague Steven Gerrard.
"I'm sure there will be a lot of people in front of me," he said. "Obviously it will be a great honour. I've done it for the U21s, it was a massive thing for me. To captain your country at any level is a great honour.
"I took great pride in wearing the armband. Every time I played I tried to lead by example. It's the same in the seniors - I try to lead by example. But it will be up to the manager to decide."
