Diogo Jota ready to attack 2023-24 after ‘learning process’ of last season

The Portugal attacker was limited to 28 appearances in 2022-23 due to injury, though finished strongly by scoring seven times within a nine-game run. 

Putting those previous troubles firmly behind him, Jota returned to pre-season training with the Reds on Tuesday and is eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign.

He told Liverpoolfc.com: “I think that’s the beauty of football as well – a hard season, the last one, a lot of wrong stuff happening and the good thing is that we have a fresh start. 

“We can’t wait to put things together and get back to the level we were before last season. That’s what a fresh start is all about.

“With everything that happens, it’s a learning process and I certainly learned a few things that I will take with me for the future. I had a few injuries and I was not able to help the team in a lot of matches. 

“Obviously starting a pre-season is always good because it gives you the chance to get ready and fit for the whole season. That’s my plan now.

“That’s what we like to do most – play football. It’s nice to have the break, to see the family, enjoy the summer. But we are professionals and we need to be ready to [get] back to action.”

Having undergone a number of physical tests on his return to the AXA Training Centre, Jota was involved in a more ball-focused session on Wednesday morning. 

Those workouts involved recent additions Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, with the pair’s early showings already leaving teammates impressed.

Jota said: “Yesterday, Dominik was one of the best in my group in terms of running, so they have that effort. I could see already today the quality Alexis has in possession.

“I think they will improve the team and make us stronger – that’s the most important thing.

“We’ve been working on the track, a lot of running, and today back on the pitch – that’s what we like the most. It’s always nice to be back here with Liverpool and the lads.”