Peter Crouch set to make a return to South Coast

Jul 5 2008 by Richard Williamson, Liverpool Daily Post

“All the positions at Liverpool are occupied by two or three players already. But my playing style suits the Premier League, where the football is played moving forward.”

But Degen, who played for Switzerland in the 2006 World Cup, believes the growing strength in depth at Anfield will only serve to bolster their title hopes.

“I am sure we can challenge,” he said. “We have a very strong team with the likes of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. But there are some strong opponents in Manchester United and Chelsea, so we will have to be very consistent.

“It’s a long season and anything can happen but we will go into the first game of the campaign hoping to push them all the way.”

Degen, whose twin brother David plays in midfield for FC Basel, is determined to play his part, adding: “It's a great club with great fans and I am happy to be here. I know the club has a strong tradition and a rich history. I hope to play a big role in the future.

“I played in Germany with Borussia Dortmund – that was a strong league, too. But now I'm looking forward to the challenge of England and the Premier League, which is probably the strongest league in the world right now.”

Degen revealed that the presence of Benitez in the manager’s role was an important factor in attracting him to the club and he believes he has plenty to offer the team.

“He was very important,” he added. “He is one of the finest coaches in the world. He has a fantastic record with both LFC and Valencia.”

On his own qualities, he added: “I am a pacey player who likes to get forward. I have a good attacking mentality and like to get up and down the flank. I also have good technique.”

Degen can’t wait to run out in front of the Kop, having experienced the Anfield atmosphere with Basel when he was an unused substitute in the 1-1 Champions League Group draw in September 2002.

He recalled: “Although I did not play on that occasion, it was a great experience and to see the fans singing the famous song ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ was something special.

“I will do all I can for the side and for the fans. I want the club to succeed and I will always do my best to ensure Liverpool are winning matches.”

Meanwhile Liverpool are hoping to bring in £3m-rated Brazilian goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri from Palmeiras.

Negotiations are on-going with the player and club but Liverpool hope to be in a position to formally announce the signing next week.

Their hopes of signing the 26-year-old could be helped by his club’s announcement that he has recently obtained an Italian passport, which means he won’t need a work permit.

That would pave the way for the departure of Scott Carson, back at Melwood this week after a year-long loan at Aston Villa, which would help raise further funds for Benitez’s transfer dealings.

Carson could fetch up to £10m.