Dejan Lovren 'Ready' To Rise To LFC's Defense In Mamadou Sakho's Absence

Dejan Lovren insists he is fully prepared to step into the Liverpool defense if required after learning a lot from what the center-back admits was a “tough” debut season at Anfield.

The No.6 was called upon as a substitute during the Reds’ last gane — the home defeat by Crystal Palace — as Mamadou Sakho was forced off with an injury before half-time. One player’s misfortune is another’s opportunity, and Saturday’s clash with league leaders Manchester City could now provide Lovren with a starting spot in Jurgen Klopp’s side.

The Croatia international naturally sympathized with the bad luck of his teammate but, at the same time, quickly began to get ready if the chance to fill the void comes along.

“Mama had a really good couple of games and a good start to the season,” Lovren told LiverpoolFC.com. “We played in Rubin Kazan together and were feeling really good.

“But you never know in football — injuries can happen today or tomorrow. So you need to be prepared. I was working hard all the time so I’m ready and looking forward to playing.”

Following a transfer from Southampton in the summer of 2014, Lovren made 38 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool during his first season.

Now two games away from a half-century in red, the 26-year-old feels he is much better placed to reproduce the level of form that earned him lofty praise at St Mary’s.

“Last year, I had a tough year,” he said. “I didn’t do preseason with the team and everything was such a rush.

“Everyone, all together, has started better than last year. It was important for me that I had a good preseason with the team and I’m feeling more comfortable now.

“I know the expectations — I know a little bit more about the club and the feelings of the fans. When you do a preseason outside the U.K., you see what a great club and a big club it is. I’m proud to be here. Now my thing is to be here for as long as possible and to win something with the club.”