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Dejan Lovren will make Liverpool stronger, says defensive partner Martin Skrtel.

The £20m summer signing from Southampton made his first appearance for the club in Sunday’s friendly with Borussia Dortmund at Anfield.

And Lovren marked the occasion by scoring the Reds second in their 4-0 win against the German side.

The game in pictures:

Skrtel, who played alongside the Croatian in the heart of Liverpool’s defence, believes Liverpool will add quality to their backline this season.

“Dejan Lovren had great season with Southampton and I am really happy that he is with us,” Skrtel said.

“We all need competition because that is what keeps you motivated.

“He will make us stronger, so I really welcome his arrival – and it will only make me work harder.

“Liverpool is not only about 11 players.

“We will have many games this season, so every player will be important.”

*Analysis: new boy Dejan Lovren shows he can bring substance and style to the Liverpool defence.