NABY KEITA has admitted that Steven Gerrard was his inspiration when growing up. The new Liverpool star was presented with the famous Anfield number eight jersey by the Rangers gaffer when he signed earlier this summer. Keita in pre-season action for the RedsPA:Press Association And now after settling into life with the Reds he has revealed that he always wanted to be like Stevie G because he was ‘The Boss’. Speaking about his footballing idol to The Telegraph, he said: “I’m a midfielder and Steven Gerrard was always the boss of the team so it had to be him. “As a kid I used to play in the streets wearing a Liverpool shirt. It couldn’t be anyone else but Steven Gerrard when I played. I wanted to be like him. “Going back to my childhood, eight is a number I always liked. Rangers boss Steven GerrardGetty Images - Getty “It’s also the number my dad wore when he played football so it’s special to me. He was never fortunate to play professionally but he played at a decent amateur level in Guinea.” The 23-year-old made a £50million switch to Anfield this summer from German giants RB Leipzig. And after taking on Gerrard’s number he realises he has big shoes to fill as he embarks on life the Premier League. related stories TARGET MAN Rangers warned they’ll be facing Osijek’s own Romelu Lukaku in Ezekiel Henty Ready to fire Steven Gerrard reckons Rangers are close to clicking in front of goal GERS CHASE Rangers agree deal to sign Liverpool winger Ryan Kent on season-long loan IN THE DOCK New Rangers signing hauled back to court over drunken attack on girlfriend ROAD TO RECOVERY Steven Gerrard gives fitness update on Scott Arfield and Declan John HOOPS AND DREAMS Rangers fans hope new orange Hummel third kit will be worn against Osijek He added: “I am aware that it’s a big number here at Liverpool and I am very excited to wear it. “I know it was Steven’s number but I am not going to put any extra pressure on myself. “What I am focusing on is performing well for this club and contributing for this team. GERS CHASE Ryan Kent to Rangers: Liverpool winger agrees season-long loan deal with Gers “It was a big shock (when Gerrard gave me the shirt). “Steven said to me ‘everyone’s going to be here for you, to help you develop’.” Keep up to date with ALL the latest news, transfers and goals from Scottish football plus fixtures, results and live match commentary
Source: Scottish Sun, News
Source: Scottish Sun, News
