But the Bootle-born defender has no intention of giving up his place.
"I've had a few seasons like that over the years where the competition for places has been intense," he said. "But that's what it's about at Liverpool. It's about the battle for your place and I'm prepared to fight and battle as well as anyone.
"I expected to play in the past and I expect to play again next season.
"Every day you go into training, you feel as though you have to prove yourself all over again, although to be honest I don't think I'll change anything. I always work hard and I'll continue to do so."
