Diogo Jota ready to attack 2023-24 after 'learning process' of last season
The hardship last season brought Diogo Jota has only made him stronger and more motivated to deliver success.
The Portugal attacker was limited to 28 appearances in 2022-23 due to injury, though finished strongly by scoring seven times within a nine-game run.
Putting those previous troubles firmly behind him, Jota returned to pre-season training with the Reds on Tuesday and is eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign.
He told Liverpoolfc.com: "I think that's the beauty of football as well – a hard season, the last one, a lot of wrong stuff happening and the good thing is that we have a fresh start.
"We can't wait to put things together and get back to the level we were before last season. That's what a fresh start is all about.
"With everything that happens, it's a learning process and I certainly learned a few things that I will take with me for the future. I had a few injuries and I was not able to help the team in a lot of matches.
"Obviously starting a pre-season is always good because it gives you the chance to get ready and fit for the whole season. That's my plan now.
"That's what we like to do most – play football. It's nice to have the break, to see the family, enjoy the summer. But we are professionals and we need to be ready to [get] back to action."
Having undergone a number of physical tests on his return to the AXA Training Centre, Jota was involved in a more ball-focused session on Wednesday morning.
Those workouts involved recent additions Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, with the pair's early showings already leaving teammates impressed.
Jota said: "Yesterday, Dominik was one of the best in my group in terms of running, so they have that effort. I could see already today the quality Alexis has in possession.
"I think they will improve the team and make us stronger – that's the most important thing.
"We've been working on the track, a lot of running, and today back on the pitch – that's what we like the most. It's always nice to be back here with Liverpool and the lads."