BRAD JONES completed the formalities on his move from Middlesbrough to Liverpool last night before admitting he faces a tough task dislodging Pepe Reina.

The Australian goalkeeper has been brought in to provide competition for Reina and Diego Cavalieri – although the new arrival has cast doubt over the Brazilian’s Anfield future.

Cavalieri has been linked with a move back to his homeland during the summer transfer window, with both Santos and Corinthians said to be interested in the former Palmeiras stopper.

Because Jones’ parents both hold British passports – his mother hails from Liverpool – the 28-year-old qualifies as a homegrown player.

That increased his appeal to Liverpool manager, Roy Hodgson, bearing in mind the new rules introduced this season that specify each Premier League club must register eight homegrown players in a 25-man squad.

“Obviously with my mum being English and my dad having a British passport, that’s helped me come over in the first place, and now it helps me with the new rules because I’m homegrown,” said Jones, who joins Liverpool for £2.3million on a three-year deal.

“It’s not going to be easy to get past Pepe though.

“He’s shown over the last couple of years how good he is. You don’t play for the clubs he’s played for and the tournaments he’s played in and not be world class.

“Obviously that side of it is going to be tough but I’ll do what I can and try to put a bit of pressure on him.

“Age-wise we’re the same but not experience-wise. He started at Barcelona very young and has played for some big clubs. There’s going to be aspects that I’ll learn from him and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Jones was at Anfield for the 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Sunday to witness Reina’s costly mistake that gifted the visitors a late equaliser.

Jones knows it was a rare slip by the Spaniard and says Hodgson has been clear about the role he is likely to play at the club.

“It’s got to help you an atmosphere like that and fans like that,” said Jones. “I just sat there in awe on Sunday. They’ve told me they want me to do what I do and put pressure on Pepe Reina and Diego Cavalieri.

“That’s fine, I’m happy to do that. I’ve got to give it a go.

“Roy Hodgson hasn’t promised anything and I would never expect that from a manager. It’s up to me to work hard and make his decisions for him.”