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Kyrgiakos out to seize chance

Image: Kyrgiakos: Determined

Sotirios Kyrgiakos is eager to make the most of his Premier League opportunity after joining Liverpool.

Liverpool new boy confident of being successful

Sotirios Kyrgiakos is determined to make the most of his Premier League opportunity after making a surprise move to Liverpool. The Greek defender sealed a £2million switch to Anfield from AEK Athens on Friday evening but admits he did not know the Reds were interested until just a few days ago. The 30-year-old, who spent time with Rangers earlier in his career, believes he is equipped to cope with the demands of English football. He is now hoping to make an immediate impact for his new club and could make his debut against Aston Villa on Monday night. "I am very happy to have this chance at Liverpool," said Kyrgiakos. "I know I had just signed a new contract with AEK and although it was a good contract, you never stop having ambitions in life, and that is why I am here. "When you are approached by a club like Liverpool, it is an offer you just cannot refuse. "I hope that I can bring my strength to this squad, I am good in the air and I have a lot of experience now, so I hope I can be of benefit to Liverpool. "I have played for Rangers in Scotland and Frankfurt in Germany, that has given me a lot of experience of competitive leagues so I believe I will adapt quickly."

Something to prove

Kyrgiakos missed Greece's successful Euro 2004 campaign through injury and feels this is his chance to achieve something really special in his career. He explained: "I know that there have not been many Greek players who have been successful in the English game, so I feel that I have something to prove for my country, that we can play at this level. "For me it is a chance to have success at the very top. I was injured when Greece were European champions in 2004, these things happen in football. "So I have plenty of motivation to do well in the Premier League and help Liverpool to be successful." He added: "I only found out on Monday that Liverpool were interested, it was a surprise but I could not say no to this club, and I hope AEK fans understand. I will always have a place in my heart for them. "This is the best stage for me to play football, I understand Liverpool's traditions and I am proud to have this chance. I have come to the best club, the biggest club."

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