Maxi on hopes, goals and PL

Our latest recruit Maxi Rodriguez was introduced to the press at Melwood on Friday afternoon. Here’s what he told radio reporters about his hopes and ambitions at Anfield.

On why he chose to join Liverpool

Liverpool is a massive club. There were maybe other clubs interested but as soon as I heard Liverpool mentioned that was it for me. I didn't have to think twice and now the important thing is to be ready and start performing well for this club.

On reported interest from Boca Juniors

There were other clubs from Europe interested but none in Argentina and no contact with Boca.

Asked whether Liverpool's current problems nearly changed his mind about signing for the club

When you decide to come to a club you don't look at the recent form and current results didn't influence my decision. The important thing for me is to come here with that desire to win, work hard for this team, try and win a regular place in the side and make the team even more competitive.

On looking forward to playing in front of the Kop

Liverpool are a great club and a club I have always liked. They are a massive club  and I can't wait to get started. I played there with Atletico and scored in the Champions League. Hopefully I can score in front of the Kop for Liverpool.

On Liverpool's indifferent form

These things happen in football. We are thinking positively and all the players are convinced we can turn things around. We have a strong belief and a strong mentality. With a couple of good results we can soon start climbing up the table into the top-four and I believe with hard work we will turn things around.

On speaking to close pals Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano about Liverpool

I have spoke to them a lot. They are confident, just as much as I am that we can return to our best form. With a couple of victories we will get our confidence back and then results will start to improve for the rest of the season.

On what he hopes to bring to the team

I can guarantee I will work hard. I will put myself on the line for the team and my teammates which is really important. To score a few goals would be really nice as well.

On adapting from La Liga to the Premier League

I think I will settle in pretty quickly. Football is the same game everywhere. Obviously here is more high tempo than La Liga but I hope I can settle in as quickly as possible.

On scoring goals

I scored a few for Atletico and also for the national team. If I can bring more goals for Liverpool that will be great for the team.

On feeling the pressure to make an instant impression at Anfield in the absence of Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard  and Yossi Benayoun

They are without a doubt top, top players and it's bad news they will be out for a long period. For me personally I don't see it as any added pressure because it's down to the team as a whole. We have to work hard as a team and improve results.