Georginio Wijnaldum believes Liverpool's summer signings Mohamed Salah and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have improved the squad in two vital areas: pace and strength in depth.

Salah, who sealed a move to Anfield from AS Roma in July, has taken his impressive pre-season form into the new campaign, scoring five goals in his first eight appearances for the club.

But the manner in which the Egyptian has settled into the squad is just as pleasing for Wijnaldum.

The Dutchman told Liverpoolfc.com: "[He brings] a lot of pace and speed! He is technical.

"He is not only a guy who scores goals but is also a team player, trying to defend with the team and trying to let other players score.

"He's a great signing for Liverpool and he is also a good person.

"He has settled in really quick because he is a person who socialises with other players and loves to speak with other players, which makes it easier for him and for us to accept him."

In contrast, Oxlade-Chamberlain has been restricted to three substitute outings for the Reds so far, having only joined from Arsenal on deadline day.

However, he was notably bright during a short cameo against Burnley last weekend, and Wijnaldum believes the No.21's versatility will prove crucial as the season progresses.

"The same as Mo – he is also really fast. He is a good team player, a player who can play in different positions," he added.

"That makes it easier for the manager and for us as a team; if something happens in a game you have a few players who can play more positions. That can help us as a team."

Of course, the addition of two new players puts extra pressure on Wijnaldum as he looks to secure a place in Jürgen Klopp's starting XI.

But the 26-year-old welcomes the competition.

He explained: "It helps me to be a better player because if you train with better players and play with better players, it automatically makes you a better player.

"That helps me personally but also the team. We have to realise we are playing for Liverpool, a big club and a club that will always sign big players and good players.

"You'll always have to compete for your space but you have to be happy that you have to compete, because that means you have a good squad and play for a good team."