Nathaniel Clyne knows what he wants from his Liverpool career and trusts Brendan Rodgers to help him reach his goals.
Clyne officially joined Liverpool on Wednesday after completing his long-rumored transfer from Southampton, the Reds announced on their website. Clyne, who reportedly cost around £12.5 million ($20 million), is expected to become Liverpool’s starting right back and continue his development for club and country at Anfield.
In his first interview as a Liverpool player, Clyne, 24, discussed his personal targets for this season and beyond.
“That’s where I want to be,” Clyne said when asked whether he made the right move, according to LiverpoolFC.com. “I want to be competing for all the titles and trophies that are available. Hopefully we can have a good season and come out of it with some silverware.”
Clyne’s Liverpool transfer completes his rapid and sustained rise from teenage pospect in 2009 to representative of one of England’s biggest clubs in 2015. Clyne credits the influences of his mother and brother, a former player, with helping him become a professional player, a senior international and now a Red.
Both Clyne’s mother and brother were delighted at his transfer from Southampton to Liverpool.
“She was over the moon — absolutely delighted for me,” Clyne said when asked about his mother’s reaction to the move. “She said that dreams do come true! I’m happy to put a smile on her face. She’s been a big part of my life growing up in football and being successful.
“He’s (Clyne’s brother) chuffed as well. He’s slightly jealous it wasn’t him! But I’ll be living the dream for him, so it’s good.”
Clyne joins former Southampton teammates Dejan Lovren, Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana at Liverpool. Clyne said he already has spoken at length to Lallana about life at Anfield, and the presences of follow ex-Saints will help him adapt to his new surroundings.
“I suppose it’ll help me settle down with the team,” Clyne concluded. “Knowing a few of the players at the club is good. I can join in with the lads, and I reckon I’ll settle down easily.”
Clyne entrusts the next stage of his development to Rodgers, whose methods and close counsel appeal to the newly signed defender.
“The gaffer has shown a lot of interest in me, and this is a place where I can improve as a player, I think,” Clyne said. “He works with young players and helps them progress. I still think there is a lot to come from me, and hopefully he can bring the best out of me.
“He’s said he can do one-on-ones with me if it helps and do individual training sessions. I’m looking forward to it. I am going to work hard to try and get myself into the team and be the best player I can be.”
Clyne’s Liverpool transfer is starting to sound like a match made in the heavens, developed on the fields of the Premier League and primed for showcase at Anfield.
Thumbnail photo via LiverpoolFC.com
