Wednesday 20 August 2014 13:20, UK
Lazar Markovic says a hefty price tag will not weigh heavy on his shoulders as he targets major silverware at Liverpool.
The deal to take the 20-year-old winger to Anfield from Benfica is believed to have been worth around £20million.
Expectation will accompany such a sizeable investment, with an immediate return demanded by coaches and supporters.
Markovic is, however, unfazed by the pressure being placed upon him and is confident that his ability will shine through as he gets to grips with life in the Premier League spotlight.
He said in the Liverpool Echo: “I’m not afraid of challenges.
“It was the same when they took me on trial at Partizan (Belgrade), when the Benfica offer arrived and when Liverpool signalled that they wanted me in their ranks.
“I believe in myself and in the luck that’s following me. I believe in the people in charge of my career. That is why I go with my dreams.
“I’m not the most expensive signing of the summer, but even if I were I wouldn’t care much about that.
“I’ve never thought about anything in relation to money. I’ve never cared about or done anything for money in my personal or my professional life.
What does it even mean to be more expensive than others? It absolutely doesn’t matter. The pitch, not the money, is the measure of everyone’s worth in football.
“What does it even mean to be more expensive than others? It absolutely doesn’t matter. The pitch, not the money, is the measure of everyone’s worth in football.
“I believe Liverpool fans expect a lot from me, and to be honest I expect a lot from myself. The same applies for the people who worked hard to bring me here.
“I do not have any fear or stage fright whatsoever. To tell you the truth, I can’t wait to start playing for Liverpool.”
Markovic is determined to ensure that his debut season in England is a resounding success, with his sights set on ending Liverpool’s 24-year wait for a top flight title.
He added: “The competition is fierce but I did not come to Anfield to fight for sixth or seventh place.
“Liverpool and our fans deserve the return of the most important trophy. I would love to be a part of the generation that brings this trophy back to Liverpool.
“With the Premier League and the Champions League, we’ll be going for it on both fronts. There are a lot of reasons for optimism. This club is very ambitious.”
