Hyypia ready for fight

Agger welcomed and warned by Liverpool veteran

Last updated: 14th July 2008

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Hyypia: Ready for Agger test

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Sami Hyypia has welcomed Daniel Agger back into the Liverpool fold, before warning he has no intention of relinquishing his place in Rafa Benitez's first team.

Hyypia was expected to play a bit-part role at Anfield last season but when Agger was struck down by a metatarsal injury, the Finn took his chance to make 44 appearances.

Agger made his comeback in Saturday's 1-0 win over Tranmere to put a ten-month injury nightmare behind him.

The Dane will expect to start the new campaign alongside Jamie Carragher at the heart of Liverpool's defence but the club's elder statesman, Hyypia, is as hungry for football as ever as he approaches his 35th year in October.

"It's nice to have him fit because players always want to play and it will have been hard for Daniel to deal with not being fit for so long," said Hyypia.

Fresh option

"It must have been devastating for him to be out for almost a whole season.

"It is not something I would really know about because I have never suffered that kind of thing but I'm sure it was very difficult for him.

"But I am really glad that he is back and he can help the team to win trophies.

"I am sure the manager is happy because it means he has five centre-backs to choose from now.

"That means we all have to fight for our place but that is the way it has always been at Liverpool and this season will be no different.

"It is good to have that kind of challenge, though. I will be fighting for my place and I am sure the other defenders will be doing exactly the same."