Jon Flanagan was one of three Liverpool players alongside Danny Ings and Joe Gomez to return to training early this summer in order to impress manager Jurgen Klopp.
The Reds returned to preseason training on Saturday but Flanagan says he was regularly at Melwood -- the club's training complex -- throughout June to get to work early ahead of the 2016-17 campaign.
Last season saw Flanagan return to action after 619 days on the sides as a result of multiple knee injuries. But with his injury troubles now behind him, Flanagan hopes to force his way into Klopp's side.
He told the Liverpool Echo: "I was in here over the summer either side of my holiday to do some sessions with the physios and the fitness coaches. It was all about trying to get a bit of a head start really. It was Joe Gomez, Danny Ings and myself.
"This is going to be a big season both for the club and for me personally. The extra sessions have got to benefit me. Hopefully I can get super fit and stay like that for the season. I haven't had a proper preseason since 2013. I haven't been able to do much on either of the last two tours. I want this preseason to be different."
He added: "It was great to get back in the second half of last season but I wasn't 100 percent match fit after so long out.
"Although it was frustrating for me not to be in the squad on matchdays towards the end of last season, looking back now, maybe it was the right decision. Now I feel great and things are going well.
"The knee is perfect. I haven't missed a single session so far and it's all good. Hopefully it carries on like that."
A number of Liverpool players who featured on international duty over the summer are yet to return for preseason training and the full-back is well aware of how crucial this period is.
The 23-year-old, who penned a new long-term deal with the club in March, also says his versatility could be beneficial in his quest for regular first-team football.
"We've had a couple of meetings already where the manager has spelt out what he wants to achieve in preseason. It's about getting the ball rolling and getting as fit as possible because that's going to benefit us throughout the season," he said.
"With no Europe, we all know there's not going to be as many games this season so it's vital to put a marker down in preseason. The manager is aware I can play left or right -- I'm happy to play anywhere for this club.
"It's about trying to catch the manager's eye and proving you deserve to start in the Premier League."
Klopp, meanwhile, has committed his long-term future to the club by signing an extended contract.