Milos Kerkez admission speaks volumes amid Andy Robertson battle at Liverpool

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Milos Kerkez got the nod ahead of Andy Robertson on Saturday(Image: Liverpool FC/Getty Images)

Liverpool's new star Milos Kerkez has opened up about the inspiring pep talk he received from team-mate Andy Robertson before the Merseyside Derby.

Kerkez joined the Reds in a £40million move from Bournemouth this summer, effectively taking Robertson's place in the starting XI, but the Scot has embraced his new role under Arne Slot to help the team.

Liverpool clinched a 2-1 win against their local rivals at Anfield thanks to first-half goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike, despite Idrissa Gueye netting a consolation goal just before the hour mark in the 247th clash between the two clubs.

Kerkez, who made his derby debut, had an impressive performance, successfully keeping Everton's threat Iliman Ndiaye at bay while also contributing to several attacks, helping Slot's side maintain their perfect start to the season.

The Hungarian international is vying for playing time with veteran Robertson.

He's pushing me, I'm pushing him and I think that's important to have in a big club like this.

Andy Robertson has embraced his role as a senior player and vice-captain at Liverpool(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

"Like I say, I'm playing a bit different so I'm adapting to that.

That was also from what the coach wanted me to do so like I said, I'm just going to do what he tells me in every game.

"With Virgil [van Dijk], I think I'm building a good connection.

We have a lot of big quality players so we have to continue."

Andy Robertson and Milos Kerkez show Liverpool's depth this season(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Speaking about the match, Kerkez said: "Obviously we were [ahead] 2-0.

That was also what the coach wanted me to do so like I said, I'm just going to do what he tells me in every game."

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