Maxi Rodriguez 'Honoured' to return to Newell's

Maxi Rodriguez 'honoured' to return to Newell's

Jul 17, 2012 3:45:00 PM

Returning to his boyhood club after 10 years in Europe, the midfielder stated that it was the happiest day of his life having completed a free transfer from Liverpool

Maxi Rodriguez could not hide his delight at securing a move back to first club Newell's Old Boys, as the former Liverpool midfielder was presented to fans in the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa.

More than 3000 supporters turned up to welcome the Argentina international back to Rosario after an absence of 10 years, following spells in Europe with Espanyol, Atletico Madrid and the Premier League outfit. Maxi moved to the Lepra on a free transfer, agreeing his return after ending his time at Anfield with a year still remaining on his contract.

The 31-year-old delighted supporters by taking the field in his new shirt, and kicking balls into the stands. He also took the time to express his own joy at sealing the switch to his boyhood idols.

"This is the happiest day of my life, coming home where I have been given so much love," he told those present in the company of Newell's president Guillermo Lorente.

"For me it is an honour to wear this shirt. I hope I can repay on the pitch all this affection that you guys have given me from the terraces.

"There were some nervous times, a lot of tension, but luckily [the negotiations] finished positively. It's been 10 long years but I am here now, I am back."

Rodriguez made 57 appearances for Newell's in his first spell, scoring 20 times.

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!