Xherdan Shaqiri Liverpool 2018-19Getty Images

Shaqiri silencing those who 'ridiculed' him after sealing Liverpool switch

Xherdan Shaqiri believes his form this season has proved wrong those who “ridiculed” him following his £13 million ($17m) switch to Liverpool.

The Switzerland international completed the move last summer when Jurgen Klopp triggered an exit clause in his contract, after suffering relegation from the Premier League with Stoke City.

Shaqiri’s inconsistency with the Potters led to some questioning whether he could become a useful addition at Anfield, despite boasting spells at Bayern Munich and Inter on an impressive CV.

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The 27-year-old has silenced those doubters by delivering two goals and three assists over recent outings, with the talented playmaker showing his true colours after being eased into the fold.

“Many ridiculed me after the transfer by saying that Liverpool are too big for me,” Shaqiri told Blick.

“But I was always calm, even when I got little playing time at the beginning.

“I knew of course, because of the experiences at Bayern and Inter, that I have to be patient, work hard and then take my chance when I get it. 

“When I was left out at Bayern for three or four games, I felt misunderstood and wanted to go.”

Xherdan Shaqiri Liverpool

A more mature Shaqiri has learned to accept rotation in modern football, with Klopp establishing a Liverpool squad with great depth.

With Liverpool looking to compete on multiple fronts in 2018-19, various options are required in each position.

Shaqiri is playing his part at present, as another creative option in an attacking side which also includes the likes of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino.

The hope is, with the club still waiting on a first major honour since 2012, that silverware will be secured this term.

Shaqiri is determined to aid that cause, and when asked whether he would rather taste Premier League title glory or a second Champions League triumph of his career, he responded: “Preferably both!

“But if I had to choose, it would be the championship in England. That would be my biggest dream, especially since Liverpool last won it before I was born.”

The English top-flight title last made its way to Merseyside in 1990, with Shaqiri not being born until October 1991.

He has helped Liverpool make an unbeaten start to their Premier League campaign this term, with 12 games delivering 30 points to date.

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