Dossena fights for long-term future at Liverpool

Andrea Dossena, Liverpool's Italian full-back, is only focused on making his mark at Anfield rather than worrying about speculation he could be off-loaded in the summer.

The left-back joined the Reds from Udinese for £6m last summer but with suggestions that the Liverpool manager, Rafael Benitez, may have to sell before he can buy ahead of next season, Dossena's inconsistent form has put him at the head of many lists to depart. However, having struggled to adapt to English football, he has improved of late and scored memorable goals against Real Madrid and Manchester United.

"When I arrived I didn't understand the language or the football here. I found a lot of differences between English and Italian football," Dossena said. "Here there is a higher intensity on the pitch and you have less time to think," he added. "In Italy you have more space, you have more time and the football is not as physical as it is here.

"But I have worked each day to adapt to the differences and now it is better for me. I've made progress with my English as well and it's much better than it was at the start of the season. I can understand what the boss wants from me and I know my team-mates much better."

The 27 year-old has faced stiff competition for the left-back role from Fabio Aurelio and Emiliano Insua this season, but Dossena feels opposition for places is commonplace at a club of Liverpool's stature.

He said: "In every big team in Europe competition is normal, even at the likes of Milan and Barcelona. But I am friends with all my team-mates and there is a good atmosphere in the dressing room. Fabio is a typical Brazilian player with 'good feet' and ability, while Emiliano is young and I have a lot of time for him. I believe he will develop into a great player."

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Italy caps that Andrea Dossena has won since making his debut in October 2007.