Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has welcomed the latest addition to Rafa Benitez’s team, £17.5million right-back Glen Johnson.

Skrtel will meet his new defensive colleague when pre-season training begins next months, but the Slovakian international has already been singing the praises of the England international.

“He is a very good player and he will definitely be a success. So I am happy that he is with us,” he said.

A few days ago Skrtel revealed how he has already hit the gym after a short rest at the end of the season, now preparing for the 2009/10 campaign.

He said, “It was so pleasant to spend a few days just doing nothing. Now I go to the gym in the mornings and it takes some time to get used to it. But don’t worry, I’ll be fine!”