LUIS Suarez has signed a long-term extension to his Liverpool contract.
The Uruguayan, who has been away on international duty at the London Olympics and has only just returned to Melwood, the club’s training base, was a reported target for Serie A champions Juventus, after impressing during his season and a half at Anfield.
Rumours circulating in the press this morning suggested that the ‘old lady’ of Italian football were ready to step up their pursuit of the South American frontman by launching a firm bid, however, his current employers beat them to the punch by persuading Suarez that he is better off on Merseyside.
Suarez, who has been vilified by large sections of the mainstream media during his time at Liverpool, has always insisted that he loves the club, the fans and his life in the North West and his actions today have gone a long way towards proving those words.
“To sign a new contract with Liverpool is unbelievable for me because I am so happy here at both the club and also in the city,” said the Uruguayan.
“I am happy off the pitch because the people of Liverpool are good with me and my family. I try my best on the pitch and when you are happy off the pitch, you are happy on the pitch. I want to say thank-you to the fans because they are our 12th player. The supporters of Liverpool are unbelievable.”
The announcement was accidentally made, before the club’s official website, via LFCTV earlier today but has since been reported by various media outlets, and has now been confirmed by the club. Suarez has scored 21 goals in 52 appearances in his Liverpool career to date and has become a firm favourite amongst the club’s passionate fanbase.
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With Suarez’s signature secured and his future confirmed, fans will be hoping that Brendan Rodgers can turn his attention to making sure that the club tie up new deals for Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger, as well as adding two or three more new signings before the season begins.
The new manager could not contain his delight at today’s news, saying:
“I’m delighted. When you have the opportunity to work with world-class players it’s fantastic. There were certainly a few clubs who were interested in him but over the off-season he and I communicated well – and he’s committed himself for the long term here now.
“He’s really looking forward to playing in this way of working. As a manager and for the supporters, I’m delighted because I know how important he is for them.”
You can catch Neil on Twitter @Neil1980 or on his blog http://itsallinthegameblog.wordpress.com/
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But is time to get players of suarez’s heights not the adams , henderson,carrol and spearing,suarez struggled coz the form of our team was affected by poor signings. suarez is both a goal scorer and creator and no that big andy is not a good partner who can help suarez break solid deffenders… We need adam johnson,gaston ramirez and matius suarez who has failed a medical but he is good
This just goes to show how this guy loves the club but more so how mentally strong he is. Most people would pack their bags and take the easy option of leaving to escape the incessant booing from opposition supporters especially Man U supporters.
I love the English culture , English cars, English people and English football but how they treat this guy and also booing the national anthem is totally disrespectful.
Let’s see how the crowds treat John Terry who may I remind you bonked a team mates wife. Maybe LFC supporters should start booing Giggs for having an affair
Hahaha “bonked”! 🙂 Not heard that for years!