Monday, 15th July, 2013
New Liverpool recruit Luis Alberto wants to emulate the success of former Reds player and countryman Xabi Alonso.
Alonso spent five successful years at the Merseyside club between 2004 and 2009, before signing for Spanish giants Real Madrid.
During his spell with Liverpool, the Spanish international obtained cult status among the Kop faithful and helped the club to win the Champions League and an FA Cup.
20-year-old Alberto, who was signed from Sevilla last month, wants to follow the footsteps of Alonso.
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He told the club’s official site: "It would be great to have the same success that Xabi Alonso enjoyed in his time here.
"For me not only is he an excellent player but also a real professional who you have to admire because it’s something to be proud of that we have players like that in Spain."
The forward, who can also play as a winger, made his debut for Liverpool last weekend in a friendly against Preston North End, which the Anfield club comfortably won 4-0.
The former Sevilla player is still adjusting to the new surroundings and is happy with his progress so far.
"I’m quite happy. I’ve arrived here from a different style league where there is a lower level of intensity and tempo but I’m getting used to things and so yes, I’m pretty pleased how it’s going.
"You can see the differences straight away in training – it is more intense and high tempo. You have to be in pretty good shape physically to be able to cope with the tempo over here. That’s what I’m focusing on currently, trying to get up to speed with the tempo of my team-mates."
Alberto has been compared with Liverpool team-mate Philippe Coutinho, who has been in sublime form for the Reds since his move in January.
"I know Philippe mostly from his time playing for Espanyol in the Spanish league", said Alberto.
"He’s been playing at the top level. I can watch and learn from him – we’re the same age, both young, we both want to progress and give everything and bust a gut to make sure we succeed."
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