Liverpool swoop for defender Degen

Attacking edge
The 25-year-old right-back has agreed a four-year contract at Anfield and will move on 1 July, once his existing deal with Dortmund expires. "He is an offensive player with great energy and a winning mentality," said Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez. "His strength is going forward and I am confident he will be prove a quality addition to our squad. Philipp is still young but has gained great experience from playing in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund and on the international stage with Switzerland."

Injury problems
Degen will provide competition for Steve Finnan and Álvaro Arbeloa, ending a three-year spell in Germany. He has been restricted by injuries for much of the last 12 months – with the former FC Basel 1893 prospect having surgery for groin, adductor and ankle problems last term. Now, though, he is relishing the chance to start afresh. "When I received the offer from Liverpool, there was no doubt I would accept it," said Degen. "I am looking forward to the challenge of establishing myself there and playing in the best league there is."