Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has insisted that he will not rush back from the injury that prevented him from taking part in Saturday’s Premier League victory over Reading.

The 30-year-old, now in his eighth season at Anfield, picked up a hamstring strain while on international duty with Spain, but claims he will only be returning to the side once his injury has fully healed.

“I’m getting better, little by little,” Reina told his club’s official website.

“It wasn’t worth taking any risks because you risk it getting worse. I’ll be patient and get really good.”

Australian goalkeeper Brad Jones impressed as Reina’s replacement for Saturday’s fixture, keeping a clean sheet and providing an authoritative presence behind his defence, and could well retain his place for Thursday’s Europa League clash with Anzhi Makhachkala.

Reina added: “Brad was excellent. He was composed, he was really good in the air, when he was called on he was fast off his line, and he played well with his feet. He had a complete game.

“He’s a good fighter and a good keeper for Liverpool, not just an understudy. He’s another keeper for the club and he’ll do his best to play as many games as possible.”