Player Talk : Momo

Sissoko’s ready to go
Friday 1 February, 2008

Mohamed Sissoko could make his debut for Juventus against Cagliari this weekend and is enjoying his fresh start.

The Mali international signed from Liverpool for a fee that will amount to £8.2m and has arrived early in Turin due to his elimination from the African Cup of Nations.

Sissoko took part in his first morning training session with the Old Lady today and was enthusiastic in his new surroundings.

“I chose this side because they are ambitious and full of champions,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“I like the Juventus mentality and the power of a side that has rebuilt itself from nothing and kept the will to win intact.

“To arrive at one of the biggest teams in the world at the age of 23 is a big challenge – they were my first choice and I never had any doubt.

“Since I was young I have had a particular admiration for Del Piero and I enjoyed watching him play – it’s hard to believe that I am his teammate.

“This year we want to qualify for the Champions League and I am ready to play against Cagliari on Sunday.

“I spoke to Jonathan Zebina and he explained to me how the club works and talked to me about life here. I feel a great responsibility, but also pride.

“What should you expect from me? I am an aggressive midfielder,” he continued. “When I first started playing for Liverpool I got lots of yellow cards, but then I learned how things work. My job is to get the ball back and make the team play.

“Comparisons with Vieira? He has already shown that he is a great champion and I need to prove that I am too.”

Sissoko left Liverpool in slightly acrimonious circumstances after falling out of favour at Anfield.

“I played regularly in my first two seasons in England, but in the last few months there were some difficulties,” he explained. “My morale wasn’t excellent but I opted for a fresh start and wanted new challenges.”

Sissoko concluded by explaining his choice to take the No 22 shirt for the Bianconeri.

“I am very superstitious and I will wear the No 22 shirt because I have two twin brothers who were born on January 2,” he grinned. “It seemed like the right number for me.”

* channel4