Xherdan Shaqiri scored and assisted on his Liverpool debut and hailed the Reds as an amazing team to play for afterward.
Jurgen Klopp‘s team wrapped up their pre-season trip to the US with a 4-1 mauling of Man United, making it two wins out of three while Stateside.
Shaqiri, a half-time substitute with the scores tied at one-all, teed up fellow sub Daniel Sturridge to put the Reds ahead just after the hour mark, before hitting an outrageous overhead kick himself to wrap up the scoring.
Ths Swiss international could hardly have dreamed of making a better impact in a Liverpool shirt, and his delight was clear after the game as he spoke with LFCTV.
“It’s an amazing day. This is a great team with amazing players. I’m very happy,” he said.
“I always train on the bicycle kicks. It’s a beautiful goal and it’s amazing to play with this great team. I’m really happy.
I want to show my football. I have a lot of experience and want to help this team going forward and today was a good friendly for us.
“I’m really glad and happy to score in front of so many fans.”
Meanwhile, Sturridge has been back in good form this summer so far—giving hope to fans that the striker can play an important role in the season ahead.
The No. 15 skippered the side for the final half-hour and was due to take the Reds’ second penalty, but let youngster Sheyi Ojo take it.
“Sheyi wanted to take it. If he shows confidence, I’m not going to stand in his way, it’s about the young players,” he said after the game.
Sturridge himself had already scored of course, but he’s remaining grounded—though optimistic—about the season ahead.
“It’s been a good vibe. Great to play here. I just want to work hard and try and help the team.
“I feel good but I’m not getting too excited. Just looking forward to the future and what I can do.
“I just wanted to work hard through the summer, help the team and be successful. That’s what it’s all about, just focusing on improving. It’s a great group of lads, I feel good but I understand it’s a long season too.
“I love it here. It’s the longest I’ve stayed at a team as a professional. I’m back here to give my all and to help us win something.”
Klopp spoke after the game to admit that how much Sturridge plays is completely down to the striker himself—so here’s to hoping that his fitness continues into the new campaign.
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