After a disappointing loan spell with Burnley last season, Liverpool full-back Jon Flanagan is hoping he can make a “fresh start” under Jurgen Klopp.
Flanagan was among the 20 players to begin outdoor training on the first day of the Reds’ pre-season on Wednesday, returning after a spell at Turf Moor.
The 24-year-old made just 10 appearances for the Clarets in all competitions last term, spending another 25 games as an unused substitute in a largely fruitless campaign.
Having suffered a nightmare knee injury in the closing stages of that season, the full-back has been unable to put together a regular run of games—but pre-season serves up an opportunity.
“It feels good [to be back]. Obviously it’s our first day of pre-season today and I’m glad to be back, raring to go,” he told LiverpoolFC.com.
“I’ve been doing work over the summer, trying to keep fit and ticking over.
“We know it’s going to be a tough pre-season so it’s vitally important for me to come back raring to go and in good shape.
“I can’t wait to get started. I think it’s a bit of a fresh start.
“I had a few injuries [but] hopefully they’re past me now and hopefully I can kick on and show what I can do.”
Once considered one of the most promising youngsters at Anfield, establishing himself as a key player in Liverpool’s title challenge under Brendan Rodgers in 2013/14, Flanagan is now on the fringes.
Klopp currently has Nathaniel Clyne and Trent Alexander-Arnold as his right-back options, while James Milner has cemented himself as the German’s first-choice left-back.
Alberto Moreno is expected to leave the club this summer, but Klopp is reportedly targeting another left-back signing, with Hull City‘s Andrew Robertson the most likely arrival.
This would leave Flanagan as third-choice cover for both positions, which is far from ideal for a 24-year-old.
He enjoys a rare affinity with the Merseyside faithful, as a local lad who has made his way through the academy ranks, but it is unlikely Flanagan will be content with a backup role.
Flanagan has stressed he now feels fully fit after his long-term knee problems, and pre-season will give him a chance to impress.
Clyne, Milner and Alexander-Arnold are already back for summer preparations too, however, as well as another full-back in Connor Randall, so he still faces a fight to prove himself.
