Dejan Lovren: I can fill the void left by Mamadou Sakho in Liverpool's defence

Dejan Lovren believes he can step up in the absence of Mamadou Sakho

DEJAN LOVREN insists he is ready to fill the hole left by Mamadou Sakho at the heart of Liverpool’s defence.

 

Sakho limped off with a knee injury during the Reds 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace at Anfield and has since been ruled out for up to eight weeks. 

The Frenchman’s misfortune means Lovren, who last started a league game on September 12, will return to the side for a crucial run of games, starting on Saturday at Manchester City.

And the former Southampton ace believes he can marshall Liverpool's defence in the absence of Sakho, who has impressed for Liverpool this season.

 

Lovren told Liverpool's official website: “Mama had a really good couple of games and a good start to the season. We played in Rubin Kazan together and were feeling really good.

“But you never know in football – injuries can happen today or tomorrow. So you need to be prepared. I was working hard all the time so I’m ready and looking forward to playing.

“Last year I had a tough year. I didn’t do pre-season with the team and everything was such a rush.

 



Mamadou Sakho has been ruled out until the new year with a knee injury



“Everyone, all together, has started better than last year. It was important for me that I had a good pre-season with the team and I’m feeling more comfortable now.

“I know the expectations – I know a little bit more about the club and the feelings of the fans. When you do a pre-season outside the UK, you see what a great club and a big club it is.

“I’m proud to be here. Now my thing is to be here for as long as possible and to win something with the club.”