Liverpool defender Kolo Toure has expressed his belief that his side's 1-0 win over Stoke City on the opening day of the new season will prove to be a big win in the future of the club.

Liverpool dominated large periods of the match but almost came away with just a point as Stoke were awarded a penalty late on, only for debutant Simon Mignolet to save the spot kick.

Toure, who is also a new signing at Anfield, believes that still winning games despite missing so many chances will only give his side a lift as they look to challenge for Champions League football this season.

"We had some chances to kill the game and didn't take them but we got the three points," Toure told the club's official website.

"We have been working so hard with the manager during pre-season. The spirit in the squad is very good and the mentality of all the players is great. We won as a team.

"It's fantastic for all the supporters and the players for us to start like this. It will give everyone a big lift. This win will be important for the future of this football club."

Liverpool's next match sees them face Aston Villa before they take on Notts County in the League Cup.