Monday 15 September 2014 10:31, UK
Leonardo Ulloa believes the responsibility of being Leicester City’s record signing will enable him to thrive in the Premier League.
Leicester manager Nigel Pearson parted company with £8million to secure the services of the 28-year-old from Brighton, despite his lack of top flight experience.
However, the Argentine frontman continued to vindicate his price tag with a third goal in four Premier League matches as the Foxes beat Stoke City 1-0 at the Britannia Stadium.
Ulloa, who netted 23 goals in 50 Championship appearances for Brighton, is not burdened by the weight of becoming Leicester’s most costly player; instead he is focused on working hard to improve his game.
“It’s good for me but it’s much better for the team,” he told reporters. “We’ve got the first win. I’m happy.
“I’m not surprised because I work all the time. I don’t think about the money. When you think about that, it’s difficult.
“I like playing for Leicester, I like playing with my team-mates, and I want to help. I enjoy every game and every training session. Yes the club paid this money but I don’t think it’s more pressure. It’s a good pressure.”
Goals against Everton, Arsenal and Stoke are evidence Ulloa has taken this latest step in his stride and claims bridging the gap between the Championship and Premier League is an enjoyable experience.
“It’s different because in the Premier League there’s more quality and more intensity than in the Championship,” he added.
“It’s a little difference, not a big difference. It’s a good experience for me. I’m enjoying everything.”
Ulloa has scored all but one of Leicester’s Premier League goals to date and strike partner David Nugent has been impressed by his new colleague.
He’s on fire. He’s come in, big-money signing, and he’s producing the goals on his own at the moment.
“He’s on fire,” he admitted. “He’s come in, big-money signing, and he’s producing the goals on his own at the moment.
“I’m trying to get up there to support him but he’s getting the goals and he fully deserves it.”
Pearson’s side have made an impressive start to their campaign after winning the Championship with five points from clashes against Everton, Arsenal, Chelsea and Stoke.
Next on the agenda is the visit of Manchester United to the King Power Stadium and Nugent is relishing the prospect.
“I think it will be massive,” Nugent added. “Going forward it’s always nice to get the first win, especially away from home as well against a team that just beat Manchester City.
“Five points out of the first 12, no-one expected it, so we’re doing well so far. The start we had was pretty difficult.
“To pick up points on the road is important because it’s probably the home form that will keep us up but we’re all encouraged by the start we’ve made.”
