SHAQ: NO.1 IN EUROPE AND PREM IS NEXT
XHERDAN SHAQIRI has no doubt Liverpool deserve their title of ‘best team in Europe’.
And he insisted the key to such a meteoric rise back to the summit of world football is a squad of real depth and quality that drives the team on to even greater heights.
The little winger (above) typifies that quality. He hasn’t started many games this season, but has still made a massive contribution with some key goals, and a huge performance in the semi-final miracle against Barcelona.
Shaqiri, 27, said: “You can see that we have a great squad, with great quality. Even if a player is not playing or he’s injured, the quality is still there.
“It’s not enough to just have good players, we have very good guys off the pitch too. You can only win titles if you are close and work well together.
“We are a very good team and we work hard together every day. I hope we can go on. This is just the start and we can win many more titles.”
Players such as Shaqiri, Divock Origi (below, with the trophy) – who scored two in the semi and another in the final to write his name in Anfield legend – and even Daniel Sturridge have produced some huge moments this season.
The Switzerland international believes that allows them to be proud of their status as champions of Europe.
“That’s the quality we have. This competition, the best team in Europe wins it,” Shaqiri said. “So we are the best team. We are No.1 in Europe, so let’s enjoy it!”
Shaqiri has been linked with a move away from Anfield, but insisted he is sticking around to fulfil another Reds dream.
He added: “This club needs to win titles and it’s a good start to win this one, no? Now, next year, we are going to go again and try to win the Premier League.
“That’s my big dream, to win the league title with this club.”