Alonso admits pressure

Liverpool player Xabi Alonso admits there is a certain pressure when playing for the club.

The fans expect a lot from Liverpool, winning all the time, to be at the top of the table and to get to the last stages of cup competitions.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has made the team stronger this season by bringing in some new players and now the expectation is to compete with Chelsea at the top of the table.

"Always when you're playing for Liverpool you feel there is pressure because people say you have to win," said Alonso.

"It's expected we will be at the top and we have to cope with this. But that's okay, because we've made a few signings and we're improving.

"The main thing for us is to speak on the pitch. Now there are different expectations because people are talking about catching Chelsea, but we know it's still going to be very difficult. They have a very good team.

"We also have a good team, but it's a long race.

"Only one game has been played, but we're confident we will do the right things through the season to challenge."