Shaqiri unfazed by prospect of Red Star trip

Liverpool winger Xherdan Shaqiri has insisted that the atmosphere in his side’s away fixture at Red Star Belgrade will not faze him.

Shaqiri was at the centre of controversy during the World Cup in the summer as he symbolised an eagle with his hands after scoring against Serbia. This was judged to have been politically motivated, leaving the winger with a £8,000 fine.

Ahead of the Reds’ trip to Serbia to face Red Star in the Champions League group stages, Shaqiri has insisted that his focus will only be on the task at hand.

Speaking to Sky Sports, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo, the summer signing said:

I had this already at the World Cup so I know I can handle this no problem. I just saw a few articles where one player said something. I don’t really care what people are saying.

I just go there to play a football game. It is not about politics, it is about football. I worry about nothing and go to play.

Shaqiri has been slowly integrated into Jurgen Klopp’s plans at Liverpool, with the German boss still favouring a front three consisting of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane.

However, Shaqiri will be desperate to make his mark in the near future, with Liverpool out to continue their strong start to the season.