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PEPE REINA has defended his form in the face of criticism following his costly error in Liverpool FC’s 2-2 draw with Manchester City.

The Reds keeper’s decision to race off his line was ruthlessly punished by Sergio Aguero as Brendan Rodgers’ side were denied victory at the Etihad.

Reina has endured a turbulent campaign with some highly impressive displays sandwiched by some glaring blunders.

"Some people say I’ve had a bad season, but honestly I think I only had three poor matches," he said.

"It’s been a strange season for me because I’ve missed lots of games with injury. This has been the most unsettled season, both personally and as a team, since I joined the club."

The Reds have been dogged by inconsistency this term but Reina, who is back in the Spain squad for tomorrow’s friendly with Uruguay in Doha, insists that was always likely to be the case as players adapt to a new regime.

"Liverpool is going through a transitional period, with new ideas and a different playing philosophy," he added. "That takes time. People have to be patient. It’s normal for us to be erratic. Right now we can’t compete with the big guns.

"They have a big edge over us at the moment, both financially and squad-wise. There’s a reason they are so many points ahead of us, and it’s not because of one or two better players."

Reina has been linked with a move back to Barcelona this summer with his dad Miguel recently claiming he would jump at the chance. But the keeper says he has no intention of leaving Anfield.

"I have a Liverpool contract and I’m only thinking of playing for the club," he said.

"My dad has a past with Barca, he has affection for the club and perhaps that’s why he said it. He wants the best for me. But I have a contract here and I have nothing else to say on that."

Striker Daniel Sturridge has returned to Melwood for treatment on a thigh injury after being ruled out of England’s friendly with Brazil at Wembley tomorrow night.