Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen has welcomed the club's summer transfer business.
The latest arrival was Mario Balotelli from AC Milan this week.
"It is credit to the club and all the staff who have worked so hard this summer to strengthen the squad on the back of a positive season," the Welshman told liverpoolfc.com.
"It shows our ambition to take that next step going forward. All the additions have settled in quickly. That's been a big positive so far.
"They've brought plenty of pace and they are going to be a big threat for us throughout the year. Our squad has great balance now throughout, strength in depth, and there is certainly going to be competition for places in every area.
"Top players like playing with top players - it brings out the best in people. It's great to have competition throughout the squad. It spurs everyone on to improve and perform at their best."
