SUSO has vowed to rise to the challenge of increased competition and regain his place in the Liverpool FC team.
The Spanish teenager has not figured in the matchday squad since the FA Cup third round win at non-league Mansfield Town earlier this month.
Having made 18 appearances since making his senior debut against Young Boys in Berne in the Europa League in September, Suso has seen his path blocked by the £12million arrival of Daniel Sturridge and the return to fitness of Fabio Borini.
But Suso believes having such quality and experience in opposition for a first-team role can only be of benefit in the long term.
“With Daniel Sturridge coming in and Fabio Borini back from injury there is going to be extra competition for places,” said the Spaniard. “Playing for Liverpool’s first team is going to be difficult and it should be because it is one of the best teams in Europe.
“The competition is good for me because it makes me determined to work even harder and to get better. But the most important thing is always the team.”
Suso will be back in contention for a starting role this weekend with Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers ready to rotate his resources for Sunday’s FA Cup fourth round tie at npower League One strugglers Oldham Athletic.
And Suso added: “I’m really happy with the way this season has been going. I think I can still do better but it is my first year and I am getting experience with every game.
