Jones backs under-fire Reina to find form

Liverpool’s Brad Jones has defended goalkeeping rival Pepe Reina following the Spaniard’s erratic start to the new season.

Reina has struggled for form so far this campaign committing a number of errors, namely against Premier League rivals Manchester City and Arsenal.

However, Jones is in no doubt that his competition for the club’s number one shirt is still an excellent goalkeeper.

“You don’t get to the top, which is where he has been for the last five or six years, if you are no good. It is as simple as that, and you don’t stay there,” he said.

“Whether he has made the odd mistake here or there, it is easy for people to jump on a goalkeeper and criticise.

“I don’t think anyone has any doubt about Pepe. I don’t think he has any doubt either. He has been at the top since he was 17, starting playing at Barcelona, so I wouldn’t be worried if it was me and I don’t think he is too worried about himself.”

Jones is enjoying the challenge of trying to impress manager Brendan Rodgers and believes he is capable of providing stiff competition for Reina.

“With a new manager coming in, you had to prove yourself all over again and it is something which I feel has gone well,” the Australian said.

“I feel I am in the best place possible to perform to my best. Whether or not I can challenge Pepe all I can do is my best.”