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Degen: Ready for challenge

I want the club to succeed and I will always do my best to ensure Liverpool are winning matches.

Philipp Degen
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Philipp Degen is confident Liverpool can challenge for the Premier League title after completing his free transfer to Anfield.

Degen officially signed for Liverpool on Thursday after leaving Borussia Dortmund and, having taken part in his first pre-season training session, the defender is setting his sights on silverware.

The Reds finished fourth in the league last season, 11 points behind champions Manchester United, but Swiss international right-back Degen is confident Liverpool can close the gap in 2008/09.

"I am sure we can challenge," Degen told the club's official website when asked about the Merseyside outfit's title chances.

Strong

"We have a very strong team with the likes of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres.

"But there are some strong opponents in Manchester United and Chelsea, so we will have to be very consistent.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of England and the Premier League, which is probably the strongest league in the world right now.

"It's a long season and anything can happen but we will go into the first game of the campaign hoping to push all the way.

Battle

"I want the club to succeed and I will always do my best to ensure Liverpool are winning matches."

Degen is also looking forward to the battle for a place at right-back with established Liverpool defenders Steve Finnan and Alvaro Arbeloa.

"They are very good players and it will be difficult but I am ready for the challenge and look forward to breaking into the first team soon," Degen added.

"I am a pacey player who likes to get forward. I have a good attacking mentality and like to get up and down the flank.

"I also have good technique. I hope to play a big role in the future."