Liverpool appeared confident as they prepare for the start of the Premier League season without having Luis Suarez around. According to England midfielder Jordan Henderson and defenders Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren, of Slovakia and Croatia, they have completed their pre-season preparation with Sunday's 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund.
According to Herderson "It was a good way to end pre-season and get ready for next week. Everybody is happy and hopefully we can continue that going into the game against Southampton. "
He added "Most of our games in pre-season have been against top opposition, Champions League teams. Now we're ready for the real test next week. We're improving all the time. We continue to work hard and work on different things."
"We've got a young team that is developing very well and we've got a lot of experience despite being so young. Hopefully that will stand us in good stead for the season."
Liverpool's new recruits, Lovren, England striker Rickie Lambert and England midfielder Adam Lallana will be facing their old club during their debut play with Liverpool.
According to defender Skrtel "Lovren had a great season with Southampton and I am really happy that he is with us. We all need competition because that is what keeps you motivated. He will make us stronger, so I really welcome his arrival - and it will only make me work harder. Liverpool is not only about 11 players. We will have many games this season, so every player will be important."
Lovren defines his Liverpool debut as "amazing" having been able to be in command for the defense of the team. He said "We're talking about Dortmund, who are in the Champions League every year and first or second in the German league."
He continued "They are a quality team. We showed a quality style of football, with four goals and a clean sheet. It was amazing for us. We played very well and it was a good start for me also because I haven't had a long time with the team but I feel like I've been here for a month already."
Liverpool is off to a good start. It's now up to Suarez to show him hoe he fares with his new team.