Daniel Agger vows to stay and fight for Liverpool place amid transfer talk

Brendan Rodgers' new system of a back three does not include the Dane

Daniel Agger in action during training with Liverpool (GETTY IMAGES)

Liverpool vice-captain Daniel Agger insists he will remain at the club as long as he feels he can make a contribution, but does believe he belongs in the starting line-up.

The Denmark centre-back made his return to the first team in the weekend's 4-0 win over Fulham after more than a month on the sidelines.

He initially lost his place after a freak gym injury and admits he rushed back too soon, meaning when he was fit manager Brendan Rodgers had already switched system to a back three which did not include him.

It was a frustrating few weeks, which unsurprisingly sparked speculation about the 28-year-old's future, but Agger is keen to focus on retaining his place.

"It is difficult to describe but I want to play all the time, every single game," he said.

"When you are not playing that is difficult but, while that is sad, I just try to work even harder every single day in training, not complaining just doing everything a bit extra.

"I am more than capable of being in the team - I feel I belong there - but it is the manager's decision and sometimes that is difficult to change in training.

"You need to grab the chance when it is there - that is what football is all about.

"I know I am here and as long as I am doing everything I can to be in that team, and I feel I am good enough and the manager can use me, then I'll be here."

Agger insists he welcomes the competition provided by fellow defenders Kolo Toure, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho and expects nothing less.

And that was why he never complained when he was out of the side and never sought reassurances from Rodgers.

"Competition is what this club has been about and should always be and that is a good thing because we want to win something," he said.

"I'm not the type of player who needs an explanation, I just carry on with my thing and try to do everything to get back into the team.

"It's been a bit longer than I hoped for but when you get the chance you need to do everything to keep your place."

PA