SEBASTIAN LETO: THE FIRST INTERVIEW
Jimmy Rice 17 August 2007
How do you feel to finally be here at Liverpool Football Club?
I feel very happy indeed. It was a very proud moment when I played my first game in the Rotterdam Tournament. I'd been waiting a month for that moment, because I'd been training with the club before I got clearance to play.
When did you first hear of Liverpool's interest in you and were you surprised?
It was in January, and yes, I was extremely surprised, though of course very happy. I knew there was interest from a few European clubs, but I never imagined for a minute that an offer might come in from Liverpool
There was reportedly interest from big South American clubs like River Plate. Was it a difficult decision to make, leaving your homeland for Europe at such a young age?
There were a number of offers in from Argentinian and Spanish clubs, but as soon as Liverpool expressed an interest, it became a very easy decision. It is one of the biggest clubs, and they are always playing for so many trophies. Liverpool has such a good image in Argentina – I was always aware of them as a kid. So, it wasn't too difficult.
There are a lot of Argentinians here already – was that a factor in your decision?
Yes, of course. Paletta, Insua and Mascherano are here, soon will be Heinze. To know you are going to a club where there are people from your own country, that makes you more relaxed about things. I already knew Paletta because I've played against him in youth teams.
You knew about your move in January – how hard was it to concentrate on playing for Club Atletico Lanus in the meantime?
At first, people were saying my heart or my head was not in it, and this was difficult to hear, but after a few weeks, I managed to get over this and I was able to concentrate on my football.
What are your first impressions of Liverpool Football Club?
It's wonderful. It's one thing seeing games on TV, but to be here in person is really special. I came over earlier in the year to watch a game against Chelsea, and what stood out was the way the fans got behind the team. They were incredible - it blew me away.
Who's been helping you to settle in?
In particular, Paletta and Mascherano. They've been a great help in training, helping me to understand what's going on and what the manager wants. They've helped me adapt myself to the group.
What has Rafa told you about your role here?
He's talked about physical things in training, like what I'm doing well and what I need to improve on, but in terms of my role in the team, we've not spoken about that.
There are a lot of good left wingers at the club. How much do you know about them and how confident are you of breaking into the first team?
I didn't know too much about Babel and Kewell before I came here, but having seen them in training I am aware they have great ability. But I am up for the challenge and I have faith in my own ability.
A lot of South Americans have struggled to adapt to English football. How confident are you you've got what it takes to succeed here?
I am quite a direct player. I like to isolate a defender and beat him, and I like to get a shot in whenever I can, so I'm hoping this style of play will stand me in good stead.
There's a young Argentinian left-back at the club in Emiliano Insua – have you spoken about the prospect of forming a partnership down that side sometime in the future?
We've not spoken about this yet! We began to chat when we were in Holland and got to know each other a bit, but we haven't had that particular conversation at this stage.
What are your immediate goals here?
First of all to settle down at the club and in the city, and of course to learn the language quickly. Then I'll look to play as much as possible, and hopefully go on to achieve great things at the club.
Who are your footballing idols?
Maradona. He's the one.
What about here at Liverpool, what have you made of your teammates in training?
It was an honour to play alongside Steven Gerrard in Holland, even though he only came on in the second half. Also Sami Hyypia, because he has been a great player for this club. To train with these players, as well as the likes of Xabi Alonso and Jamie Carragher, is really good for my development.
Moving on to life off the pitch, how are you settling into the city?
I'm over here on my own at the moment, but in two weeks my girlfriend is coming over, which will be nice. I really like England, and Liverpool seems like a great place. The people are very friendly and everything is quite relaxed.
Have you had a chance to check out the Argentinian restaurant in town yet?
Not yet, but I've heard about it and am definitely going to check it out soon.
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Seems like a sound lad. Welcome to the club Leto.
