The transfer of Xherdan Shaqiri didn’t excite any Liverpool fan as much as the arrivals of Naby Keita, Alisson or Fabinho.
But his performances during pre-season have been more impressive than any of the other three.
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(Video) Shaqiri’s stunning assist v Torino leaves Liverpool fans purring
Playing in a variety of offensive positions, both central and wide, Shaqiri has showed wonderful intensity, genuine vision and creativity and jaw-dropping end product.
His wonder-goal against Manchester United and his beautiful assist for Daniel Sturridge v Torino were two of the highlights of the summer.
Now, Shaqiri has claimed Liverpool can beat any side on the planet and has genuine ambitions of doing so, too!
“For me, nothing is impossible,” Shaqiri told Andy Hunter of the Guardian. “We can be everything we want to be. We beat Manchester City in the league and the Champions League last season so I think we can beat anyone in the world. It has to be our ambition to compete with the best and to go on the field against whoever we play trying to win the game and dominate the game. Our aim is to win as many titles as possible. That is the goal of the club now and we are looking forward to the season.
“I came here to try to win titles. I think this club needs to have this ambition to win titles, to play for titles, and to be one of the best teams in the world. It is one of the best clubs in the world and so now we try to show that on the pitch. Liverpool had a very successful and good season last year but we didn’t win a title. Now it is important to be very good again and to achieve that last thing. I think we now have the quality and a talented team who can play to win titles. It has to be our goal to try to be the best in the league.”
What superb quotes!
We don’t think Shaq will start today against West Ham, but he provides a superb option from the bench – especially if one of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane or Roberto Firmino need a break.
He also provides an option in the midfield three though; capable of performing as a running no.8, or a more traditional no.10.