Johnson is one of the world’s best, says Liverpool defender Manquillo

The full-back believes competing for a spot under Brendan Rodgers is helping him to develop into a better player than he was with Atletico Madrid


Javier Manquillo says he is happy with his development at Liverpool despite competing for a place with “one of the world’s best” in Glen Johnson.

The Atletico Madrid full-back moved to Anfield on a two-season loan deal in August, having struggled to break into the first team at the Vicente Calderon, and has made 12 starts under Brendan Rodgers.

The 20-year-old has found himself competing with Glen Johnson for a starting berth this term and, despite Johnson having been overlooked for the latest England squad, he is adamant the former Chelsea man is among the best in his position.

“My objective here was to become a better player, and I’m getting [the necessary games],” he told AS.

“I came here knowing what they had. Johnson’s one of the world’s best but Atleti and I decided it was best for me [to move], as I needed to play.

“Here you have the pressure of playing for a big team with expectations, and that helps you mature. It’s not easy, but my [personal] expectations are being met.”

Manquillo also revealed the presence of compatriots such as Suso and Jose Enrique has helped him to settle in at Anfield, adding: “I’m adapting.

“It’s one of the hardest things to do but I have help. Jose Enrique and Suso are some of my guides here. The Spanish players get together often and we spend our afternoons together.”

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