Dalglish issues stern warning

Kenny Dalglish has warned Liverpool players they will need to play better without the ball to bring success to Anfield this campaign.

A 3-3 draw in Norway against Oslo side Valerenga was the third pre-season match in a row that the Reds have failed to win, and they have now conceded 15 goals in their five friendlies.

Dalglish, who oversaw a rejuvenation in form at Anfield following his arrival in January, believes an “educated” week of training will benefit the Reds’ squad.

“We’ve got to start looking towards the [league] games,” he told the Liverpool Daily Post.

“The important thing is we’ve got to be better when we don’t have the ball, but the boys aren’t shy of hard work.”

“There’s an educated week’s training ahead.”

The Merseyside club were 2-0 down against Valerenga until Andy Carroll pulled a goal back before half-time.

Daniel Agger’s two late goals from corners looked to have given Liverpool victory, but an injury-time equaliser denied them a win.

“It was obviously more pleasing in the second half; we were closing down higher up the pitch,” Dalglish said.

“In the first half we stood off. They wanted time to play and we gave them time to play.”

“You’ve got Pepe [Reina] back after his operation, Daniel Agger back, which was good. Raheem (Sterling) got a wee run. Stephen Sama got a wee run as well, so there are some positives.”

Before Liverpool’s pre-season trip to Norway, the Anfield club had already toured the Far East and Turkey in preparation for the new Premier League season.

“The travelling is necessary nowadays because of the stature of the club,” Dalglish said.

“It’s something we have to do and something we’re glad to do. You want to show gratitude to people for their fantastic support.”

“Coming here is much the same. It’s a pleasure to come here and play. We’ve had a wee bit of travel but that’s to be expected.”

“That won’t impinge in any way, shape or form the work we’re going to have to do.”