Andrea Dossena insists he's feeling more settled at Liverpool.

"When I arrived I didn't understand the language or the football here. I found a lot of differences between English and Italian football," Dossena said. "Here there is a higher intensity on the pitch and you have less time to think.

"In Italy you have more space, you have more time and the football is not as physical as it is here.

"But I have worked each day to adapt to the differences and now it is better for me. I've made progress with my English as well and it's much better than it was at the start of the season.

"I can understand what the boss wants from me and I know my team-mates much better."

The 27 year-old has faced stiff competition for the left-back role from Fabio Aurelio and Emiliano Insua this season, but Dossena feels opposition for places is commonplace at a club of Liverpool's stature.

He said: "In every big team in Europe competition is normal, even at the likes of AC Milan and Barcelona.

"But I am friends with all my team-mates and there is a good atmosphere in the dressing room.

"Fabio is a typical Brazilian player with 'good feet' and ability, while Emiliano is young and I have a lot of time for him. I believe he will develop into a great player."