Lazar Markovic says he is desperate to show Liverpool fans just why Brendan Rodgers decided to pay Benfica £20million for his services this summer, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The Serbian has made substitute appearances for the Reds against Manchester City and Tottenham so far, and could be in line for his Anfield debut when Liverpool take on Aston Villa this evening.
And the 20-year-old admits he is excited by the prospect of showing the Anfield faithful what he can do.
“I can’t wait to play at Anfield for the first time,” Markovic said.
“I am very excited. I’ve watched other games at Anfield from the stands but hopefully this time I’ll be out there.
“I know the atmosphere will be amazing and I want to sample that.
“The team is in a good moment after the win at Tottenham and I want to help us build on that.
“I’m feeling good physically. The injury was annoying and it meant I wasn’t able to play as much as I wanted but that’s behind me now.
“Whether I start or not is down to the manager but I’m prepared and I want to get out there and show the fans what I can do.”
Despite his tender age and the pressure of a big money move to the Premier League, Markovic says he has settled into life with Liverpool very quickly.
“I haven’t been here long but I’m very happy,” he said.
“It’s normal to miss family and friends but I moved over with my mother and father and I’ve settled very quickly.
“I’ve seen quite a lot of the city and it’s superb. The people are very friendly, approachable and relaxed.
“I know I have a manager here who can help me to improve further.
“I was a bit nervous in my first game against Man City but the second one against Tottenham I enjoyed a lot more.
“I think this is the best league in the world with the most exciting football.
“It’s very fast with a lot of goals and lots of open, attacking football. That suits me.
“This team can go far this season and I know we can challenge for the title.
“We also have the Champions League to aim for. That’s a competition I’ve played in before and it’s the one where all top players want to play. We will have an important role to play in that but for the moment our focus is on the Premier League and getting three points against Villa.”
