Liverpool defender Steve Finnan has declared he will fight for his place in the Reds squad amid reports that he may be sold back to Fulham.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez has added to his defensive options this summer by securing the services of right-back Philipp Degen from Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer, with Andrea Dossena of Serie A side Udinese also looking like a possible addition.

The Irishman was a firm favourite at Liverpool since his GBP 3.5 million move in 2003 from Fulham, but he found himself on the sidelines for much of last season with only four starts in their last 17 matches.

Following reports that Benitez could allow the player to leave Anfield this summer, Finnan said: "I think every player welcomes competition. I'm no different.

"If the manager wants to add more I've got no problem with that. Obviously it benefits the team and it means those of us already here have to keep improving.

"At a club like this there will always be competition for places. We're all aware of that. Nobody can afford to take anything for granted.

"Rumours about new signings appear on a regular basis, it's part of the job.

"You look at our squad now and you can see we've got two top players in nearly every position."