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Stewart Downing has expressed his elation on arriving at Anfield for the first time. The proceedings to bring the English Winger at Liverpool were stretched as two bids were rejected in the course but better late than never. Downing had reciprocated towards the rumours of a possible move to Anfield earlier and he coherently said that he was pleased with the move. Downing said, “Once I knew of their [Liverpool] interest, there was only one place I wanted to go.” Downing has earned his fair share of caps with England as well and is certainly one of the best wingers in the Premier League. At 26 years of age, he can hope for an extended run at Liverpool.
Downing said that the biggest motivation for making this move was to play in front of the Liverpool fans. He said, “When I wanted to come to Liverpool, it was the first thing I thought of – playing at Anfield in front of those great fans. I’m really looking forward to it.” The fans were brilliant in the last half of the season last year and went so far as to chant Dalglish a “happy birthday” song. The love for the club enchanted Downing into making the deal.
Downing’s also outlined his immediate aims at the club. The team is currently on the Asia tour so he is likely to stay in England and prepare for pre-season. Downing said, “Getting a few goals and a few assists for the lads up front, that’s what I’m hoping for.” He also tabled his versatility by saying that he would adapt into the system that the manager decides upon. He can play on the right as he did for Villa but he had no hesitation in occupying the left flank as well.
Liverpool lagged behind in the race for league wins to Manchester United last year and that irks Downing as much as it irks any Liverpool fan. He said that like every player at the club, his aim would be to secure as many wins as possible. Silverware would come eventually. To conclude, Downing expressed his gratitude to Dalglish who was the prime mover in this deal.
Liverpool also confirmed the signing of Roma’s back-up goalkeeper Doni. Doni will play the same role at Liverpool. His role would be to support Jose Raina and spend time with young talent. Liverpool are keen to send some of their goal-keepers on loan so that they can gain crucial play-time and evolve in due time. Doni’s signing is a positive move and removes any element of vulnerability from the squad.
