"We're certainly looking forward to the battle with Chelsea. We've prepared well during pre-season despite a few of the friendly results not going our way and we are looking forward to this weekend's Community Shield," said the Liverpool skipper.
"It's the first trophy of the season, albeit not a major trophy, but we will be going down to Cardiff again determined to win the game.
"Chelsea have signed a few people in the summer as we expected they would and they will be the team everyone has to beat again this season. But we have also strengthened our squad in every department and we are looking forward to the battles ahead.
"The manager has been busy and you have got to be confident about the season ahead when you look around our dressing room.
"We have held onto everyone and added some quality in a few key areas. I am more excited about the start of the season than I have been for a long, long time."