Sebastian Coates is eyeing a more regular berth in the Liverpool team after struggling to break through in his debut season.

The Uruguayan defender scored a superb volley in the Reds' disappointing 3-2 defeat to Queens Park Rangers last night, but has largely warmed the bench at Anfield since joining from Nacional in the summer.

Coates acknowledges the competition for places at the club but is confident that he has the backing of manager Kenny Dalglish and will play a bigger part in the Liverpool side next term.

"I knew when I came to Liverpool that it was going to be hard to play, because it has a huge history," he said.

"Also, we have great defenders here. In fact, there is a Liverpool legend in front of me, Jamie Carragher.

"I had the dream of playing, and I thought I was going to have more opportunities here at Liverpool than the opportunities I am having. But I do know that Liverpool trust in me and that I am going to play more matches next season."

Coates has made just nine appearances since his £7m move to Merseyside in August.