Nice interview with him on .tv
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Maxi: I was made to play here
17th Feb 2010
Maxi Rodriguez has revealed how he believes the aggressive nature of the Barclays Premier League will bring out the best in him.
The Argentina winger has made six appearances for Liverpool since completing his January transfer from Atletico Madrid.
And rather than be perturbed by the notoriously combative style of English football, Maxi admits it's something he is relishing.
"It's going fantastic so far and I couldn't have hoped for better," he told Liverpoolfc.tv. "It's so different to daily life in Madrid, but I think I am settling in and it's even better here than I expected it to be.
"Gradually as the weeks have gone by, I've been getting used to daily life in the city. I think it will be even better when I'm more settled.
"It's totally different here to the football in La Liga. Certainly you are aware of the fact it is a lot more physical, tougher and aggressive - they are the big differences.
"But wherever you play football in the world, you still play with a round ball, so you get used to it.
"What's more, I really like the competitive, physical aspect of the game. I think it suits my style and I'm enjoying it."
There are fewer fixtures more physically challenging than a Merseyside derby, however Maxi was a stand out performer in Liverpool's battling victory over Everton earlier this month.
Dirk Kuyt's second-half header settled a typically feisty encounter at Anfield - and Rodriguez admits the Kop played a key role in firing up Rafael Benitez's side on the day.
Reflecting on his derby bow, he said: "I loved it. I really enjoyed it because we won - the fact we came away with the three points was very important.
"It's a long time since I've played in such a high tempo, intense game and atmosphere.
"All home games are special occasions for the players and fans, but you play with your heart on those occasions because you know how much it means to the supporters."
The 29-year-old added: "It's something special to hear the fans singing You'll Never Walk Alone.
"I'd been here with Atletico in the Champions League, but obviously I was on the opposition. You really appreciate this tradition when you know the fans are on your side and singing on your behalf.
"It's a beautiful moment and a special experience for both fans and players. It's a real motivating factor and something that should continue for all of Liverpool's existence. It's unique and special."
Maxi was greeted by a few familiar faces at Melwood when he completed his move to Anfield - most notably international colleague Javier Mascherano.
"Javier has been a great help - a massive help - for me, especially from the language point of view," he acknowledged.
"When you come to a different club in a different country and you don't understand the language, it's a big help to have someone around who can translate for you.
"However, the big thing is to try on your own, and so when I am out and about I try to learn. I also have a teacher and I'm having lessons, and bit by bit I'll get used to speaking.
"Speaking is hard so far, but my understanding is coming along."
The Reds' new No.17 was also welcomed to Merseyside by former Atletico teammate Fernando Torres.
The pair struck up a close friendship during their time together at the Vicente Calderon - and Maxi is eager to be reunited once again on the pitch.
He said: "Fernando and I had some good times playing together at Atletico. As well as being a great player, he is a good guy.
"Obviously we have a really strong squad here at Anfield, but you will always miss someone like him.
"So to get him back will be a real bonus. I am looking forward to playing with him again greatly."
Maxi has started Liverpool's last two matches, but will be forced to watch Thursday's Europa League clash with Unirea Urziceni from the sidelines.
Having figured for Atletico in continental competition this season, Rodriguez is ineligible to play a part in the Reds' European campaign for the remainder of 2009-10.
"When I found out it wouldn't be possible for me to play in Europe, it left a sick feeling in my stomach," he admits.
"You always want to play and take part, and you feel as though you are almost letting your teammates down by not being able to play. But you've just got to take it in your stride and move on."
He added: "I am reasonably satisfied so far - I think I've done okay.
"I came here to perform and do a job for the side. I think it's a case of working on my physical strength to make sure I can last and be 100 per cent throughout the 90 minutes. The football is different, as I said before, but I think so far, so good."
Meanwhile, the forward has revealed the reasoning behind the decision to display 'Maxi' on the back of his jersey rather than 'Rodriguez'.
"I am fine with Maxi, but fans can call me whatever they prefer," he said.
"We tend to have lots of nicknames in Argentina. Mine is 'La Fiera', while Javier's is 'the boss' or 'El Jefe'. It's a tradition over there for players to have a nickname."
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/maxi-i-was-made-to-play-here