Naby Keita has vowed to continue working hard as the £52million signing bids to establish himself as a first-team regular for Liverpool.
Much was expected of Guinea midfielder Keita following his move from RB Leipzig to Anfield in the summer of 2018.
The 24-year-old endured a frustrating first campaign in the Premier League, however, and has continued to struggle to force his way into Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI this season.
Keita has made only five appearances for Liverpool during the 2019-20 campaign – starting just twice – and remained on the bench as the Reds beat Tottenham on Sunday.
Asked how he intends to win back a place in Liverpool’s starting line-up, Keita said: ‘The key thing is to avoid picking up injuries.
‘Any player in our squad, when they’re at 100%, has a great chance to start the games.
‘It doesn’t affect me [his price-tag]. I always had the ambition to play for a big club and I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today.
‘It was difficult getting the injury but I’ve worked hard to get back and get to the condition I’m now in.
‘I’ll be continuing in that vain to avoid injuries and hopefully perform week in and week out for the team.’
Keita’s injury problems saw him miss Liverpool’s run to the Champions League final last season. The Reds beat domestic rivals Tottenham in Madrid to lift the trophy.
‘It was hard for me. I didn’t take it well,’ Keita added in an interview with Sky Sports.
‘It was a painful experience to miss out on a huge match like the Champions League final. The only thing I can do is reapply myself and try and get the club back there again this year.’
Keita, 24, has also dismissed the suggestion Klopp affords special treatment to any of the team’s star players.
‘I don’t think he has any particular favourites or he has picked anyone out for a special mention, he communicates very freely and openly with all the players,’ the midfielder said.
‘He likes to laugh and joke around, he has a very light relationship with all the players.’
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