Sissoko transfer finalised

By Redsfan
July 14 2005

Liverpool’s new signing, Momo Sissoko is flattered to be likened to Patrick Vieira and say’s it won’t put any extra pressure on him

Sissoko completed the formalities of his transfer from Valencia this morning and told
Liverpoolfc.tv:

"I am still young and have a lot of work to do before I can be compared to Vieira. It's a good target for me to aim for."

Sissoko admits he's delighted to be teaming up once again with Benitez, after playing for the Liverpool boss at Valencia.

He said: "I have a great deal of respect for Mr Benitez. He helped me a lot at Valencia and he was the main reason why I decided to come to Liverpool.

"He showed last season with Liverpool what a great manager he is and I want to be a part of this club's future. I know all about the history and tradition of the club and I am honoured to be here.

"As well as the manager I already know some members of the backroom staff and some of the players. That will help me settle in.

"I'm just looking forward to challenging for a first team place now. There are a lot of great midfielders here already and so I know it's going to be difficult, but I am still young and highly motivated to prove my worth."

So what qualities will our new 20 year old midfielder bring to the Liverpool side?

"My favourite position is centre midfield and I think that's where the manager sees me playing," he added.

"I started off as a defender but Mr Benitez moved me into midfield and helped me develop as a player in that position.

"I can promise the fans that I will work as hard as possible during everygame. I'll work my socks off for this club. I will run for every minute I am on the field and look to win as many tackles as I can. That's what my game is all about and I am looking forward to improving just by working with so many great players every day."

Sissoko admits he came close to joining Everton earlier in the month, but now that he's opted for a move to the European Champions he's in no doubt he made the right decision.

"It's true to say I almost signed for Everton," he said. "It was very close. But as soon as Liverpool told me they were interested it was an easy decision to make.

"I expect the derby game to be tricky and I'm sure the Everon fans won't be pleased with me, but I don't see that as a problem.

"I'm a Red now and I couldn't be happier."