Liverpool striker Divock Origi admits it took a while to adapt to the Premier League, but that he is now ready to go up a gear in a Reds shirt.
The 20-year-old Belgian has impressed in recent weeks following a slow start, with a hat-trick against Southampton and a late equaliser at home to West Brom catching the eye – another goal would make him joint-top scorer this season!
Origi was very honest in confessing that it has taken time for him to find his feet in England, but he is now ready to live up to the hype.
“I think I needed some time to adapt to the lifestyle and the new competition but now I am able to show my qualities,” he says.
“For me I expect a lot from myself and I was a little bit frustrated because you work hard and the games don’t go like you want, so it was a huge relief to score. Mentally for me it was a huge boost.
“When I came here, everyone was clear about what they expected from me – to become a top player.
“But there are already top players in the team, so it was hard… I don’t have to ask myself too many questions, just bring my enthusiasm to the game and believe in myself.”
Origi is clearly very confident in his own ability, and he feels that if manager Jurgen Klopp shows trust in him, he will flourish.
“I would be very happy and excited to be called on by the manager. I am ready to give my all. The last game showed great things can happen,” he added.
“All you can do is give everything and then the coach makes the decision. The manager knew me from before and I try to play on my qualities in this system.
“He demands a lot as a coach but he is very good tactically so I am happy I can show my qualities. I am happy at this club – I am here for a reason. Whenever the team or coach needs me I am ready. I hope to be playing more from now.”
The Belgium international has been hotly-tipped to become a world-class striker in years to come, with compatriot Vincent Kompany claiming he will eventually “be among the five or ten best strikers in the world”.
While that is clearly a mouthwatering prospect for any Liverpool supporter, Origi still has plenty of development ahead.
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