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SANTA CRUZ: "2001 WILL BE MY YEAR"

ROQUE SANTA CRUZ believes he is ready to fulfill his unquestionable talent in 2001 and become Bayern Munich's first-choice striker.

The 19-year-old arrived at the Olympic Stadium with a 10 Million Mark (£3.1 million) price-tag and a big reptuation, yet he has so far struggled to make an impact  with Ottmar Hitzfeld's all-conquering outfit, scoring 10 goals in 47 games.

"He is the greatest talent that we have ever got our hands on.

"This will be Roque Santa Cruz's year," claimed club president Franz Beckenbauer.

High praise indeed from a man who was regarded as one of the best footballers of his generation.

Santa Cruz realises Bayern fans and staff expect great things of him but remains confident in his own ability.

"I am mature and fit enough to make the break through.

"If I play often enough then it will be my year. I want to play in every game and score in every match," revealed the starlet.

The Paraguayan international faces stiff competition up-front with Claudio Pizarro, Giovanne Elber and Paulo Sergio all vying for a striking berth but the youngster claims he is not afraid of fighting for a place.

"That is not a problem for me. It is a problem for Ottmar Hitzfeld," added the player diplomatically.