Liverpool winger Albert Riera has downplayed the significance of early season results. "I think this kind of match is all about being ready for the start of the season," the Spaniard told the club's official website.

"It was a fantastic game for them [Espanyol] and they played better than us. They have trained for around 10 days more than us and I think you saw this clearly. When you are in pre-season, 10 days is a lot."

Riera pointed out that Liverpool's Spanish contingent returned to training later due to their involvement in the Confederates Cup, saying, "Some of us came back from our national teams a little bit later and have only had 10 or 12 days' training. We need a little bit more before the start of the season, but we will be ready.

"Of course we are disappointed because we lost. Even if it's a friendly match, you always want to win, but as I said, it is all about being ready for the very first game."