James Milner hailed what he believes are "exciting times" at Liverpool after their pre-season victory over Brisbane Roar saw them produce another impressive display. 

The 29-year-old scored for the first time since joining the Reds from Manchester City earlier this month, ensuring a 2-1 win for Brendan Rodgers' team.

And the midfielder, who has made a strong impression so far in their warm-up games, believes that the quality and unity of the squad make for a promising coming campaign.

He said: "You look at the squad and there are plenty of young players coming through added to the manager and the new staff he has brought in and everything is there for us.

"There are still a number of players to come in as well so it is really exciting times at the club."

Midfielder praises Reds' squad unity 

Milner is already familiar with several members of the Liverpool squad, having played with them on international duty for the England national team.

But as he continues to bond with the rest of his new team-mates, Milner hailed pre-season as a great way for everyone to get to know one another - which he said will help "build the foundation to kick on for the season."

The Yorkshireman added that the bonus of spending two weeks away with each other means the more the Liverpool side will improve, and the better they will get.

On Friday's performance against Brisbane, he added: "I think you can see from afar that team unity and everybody wanting to play for each other.

"Without the ball, that press and everybody doing it together - and you need to do that to play that way.

"I think looking at the characteristics of the team you can see it is a side that wants to press and wants to put teams under pressure, and when they've got the ball - play as well.

"I think it is a great bunch of lads. It's a very honest bunch, and people want to go that extra yard for each other. You need that when you are playing this well."

English international Milner pleased to get his first goal

Milner has already developed an effective partnership with Jordan Henderson in the centre of midfield, with Emre Can still to return to the fold.

But that is only one of several positives which Rodgers' side have had from their first few pre-season performances.

However, Milner insists they are not getting carried away - and that they will be focusing on building their fitness, which he called "the most important thing" in their final four friendlies. 

"They [Brisbane Roar] were a good test for us. They moved the ball around well and made it tough for us," he continued.

"We managed to get the win in the end and it was pleasing for me personally to get on the scoresheet and get 90 minutes.

"But we have so many games coming up, so it is important that everyone [in the squad] gets a chance. There are so many good players here."