"Always when you're playing for Liverpool you feel there is pressure because people say you have to win," said the midfielder.
"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.
"It's good for the manager because now he has so many different options to choose from, so no-one can say they will always start a game.
"Different players suit different systems, so it's good for the competitiveness of the team. Each player knows he has to be at his best if he wants to be selected."