The Reds have kept clean sheets in four consecutive matches and the defender hopes that they can extend that run against Mauricio Pochettino’s men on Tuesday night
Martin Skrtel takes confidence from Liverpool’s recent solid defensive displays and has called for more of the same ahead of Tuesday’s Premier League clash with Tottenham at Anfield.
Brendan Rodgers’ side looked vulnerable earlier in the campaign, keeping just five clean sheets in their opening 20 matches, but a run of four consecutive games without conceding points to a greater defensive stability, while an eight-match unbeaten run has seen them climb to seventh in the table.
Saturday’s 0-0 draw with neighbours Everton provided further evidence of Liverpool’s solidity and Skrtel has been encouraged by the team’s performances in recent weeks.
“We have changed the system to a back three and it is working for us,” he told the club’s official website. “We are defending much better. It suits us. I hope we can carry on this way in the future.
“I’m happy for the team, because we have improved our defending. There was a lot of criticism. Since New Year, we have only conceded one goal from open play – that’s great and I’m happy about that.
“The Spurs game is massive. Tottenham are a few points in front of us. It’s going to be a big game; now we have a few days to get ready for it.
“I believe and hope we can beat them and get three points but every single game is important for us. We’ll go game by game, try to get as many points as we can and try to finish in the top four.”
Tuesday will see Skrtel come up against arguably the most in-form striker in the division in Spurs’ Harry Kane. The England Under-21 international scored both goals as Tottenham came from behind to defeat north London rivals Arsenal 2-1 at White Hart Lane on Saturday, taking his tally to 22 in all competitions this season.
That victory means that Tottenham come into this match just outside the Champions League places, with only one defeat in their past 10 league games, and manager Mauricio Pochettino wants to carry that momentum forward.
“Our performance was great because in front of us was a tough team like Arsenal,” he said on Saturday. “It’s always a special game.
“We showed a special energy and it’s important to keep this feeling. We have to keep going, look forward and move onto the next game now.”
Liverpool have doubts over Lucas Leiva, who had to come off at Goodison Park with a thigh problem, while Adam Lallana’s groin injury is also a concern. Daniel Sturridge could be in line for his first start since August as he steps up his recovery from thigh and calf problems and 19-year-old Jordon Ibe could be in line to feature again after starring against Everton.
Pochettino, meanwhile, has the luxury of a fully-fit squad from which to choose.