[lfc-news] Sissoko: It had to be Reds - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 14 July 2005
Sissoko: It had to be Reds
By David Prentice, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL'S new £5.6 million capture Momo Sissoko today admitted that he
came within a whisker of signing for rivals Everton - and paid tribute
to Rafael Benitez for changing his mind.

The Mali international, who was unveiled at Melwood today, said: "It was
close, but I opted to sign for Liverpool.

"It was a decision I made on my own and I believe it was the right decision.

"The motivation for me was the manager. He was the manager who got me
into the first division in Spain and I have great respect for him.

"The motivation to join Liverpool came from him. I appreciate the way he
works, the motivation he has and the ambition he has."

Sissoko, 20, admitted he expects an uncomfortable reception from
disappointed Everton supporters in the city.

"I am sure it's going to be tricky," he said. "But for me that's not
really a problem. I am a Red man and I am happy.

"I am here to learn from the players who are already here, like Steven
Gerrard and Xabi Alonso.

"I was at the match last night and I was pleased with what I saw. The
team played well, passed the ball well - and as for Steven Gerrard, he's
a great player."

Meanwhile, Liverpool were expecting to discover today if their quest to
sign Luis Figo has been successful.

Real Madrid have now indicated they will allow the Portuguese
international to leave the Bernabeu on a free transfer.

However, Inter Milan have emerged as strong rivals for his signature as
they seek to replace Newcastle-bound Emre.

A decision on the 32-year-old's future was expected before he departs on
Real Madrid's pre-season tour.

* Steven Gerrard today revealed his hat-trick against TNS last night was
the first since he was a young boy.

He told the ECHO: "It's probably my first and last hat-trick for Liverpool.

"I should have scored a hat-trick against Graz last year. I think I was
seven or eight the last time I got one.

"It was special for me after everything which has gone on. It was great
to get the reaction I did from the fans. That made it even more special."

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