Asmir Begovic believes Chelsea can turn their season around ahead of their huge clash against Liverpool on Saturday at Stamford Bridge (Watch live, 8:45 a.m. ET on NBCSN and online via Live Extra).
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The Bosnian international, 28, has found himself thrust into the limelight this season after Thibaut Courtois injury and Begovic has arguably been one of the Blues’ most consistent performers.
Below are a few of Begovic’s thoughts ahead of the key Halloween clash against Liverpool as Jose Mourinho’s side look to grab a victory which would draw them level on points with the Reds.
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Here’s what Begovic has to say.
On the team spirit remaining strong at Chelsea:
“The most important thing at this time is the spirit and character in the squad. That’s an important base to have in this kind of situation and it is something that will bring you through these things. It’s definitely something we have and I think our recent games have shown we’re all together, we’re all fighting and we’re all trying to turn things around. If we keep doing that, then things will turn around.”
On the rub of the green not going Chelsea’s way in recent defeats to West Ham, Stoke:
“I think that, in general with our performances and everything, we’re heading in the right direction, we’re just not getting what we arguably deserve. Last Saturday’s game especially was a case in point, but it’s something we can’t get too disheartened about. We’ve just got to keep going. Things like that will have to go our way sooner or later. Look at the goal-line incident – you’re talking about a matter of centimetres that can change the complexion of a game. We know we’re not far from where we want to be, but we just need to keep working hard and fighting throughout. Ultimately, it’s about 11 guys trying to do their jobs and, if we collectively do that, that will lead to positive results. It’s obviously disappointing when the team’s not getting the results we all want, but it’s just about trying to contribute as much as we can and helping the situation change around. My main focus as a goalkeeper is trying to do my job, being reliable and helping the team in that way.”
On tasting Chelsea’s intense rivalry with Liverpool for first time:
“From the outside looking in, those games have always seemed a bit tasty and fiery, so I’m excited to be a part of that. It’s two big clubs with big traditions and expectations as well as history together. These games are always going to go down as a battle of giants, so it’s a feisty game, but I just want to play well and get the points.”
On beating Liverpool 6-1 as a Stoke City players last season and the magnitude of this match:
“It seems like a lot of things have happened against Liverpool and that last game is the type of result that would do very nicely today. It’s a great occasion every time Liverpool come to town. This is a big game for both teams, two big clubs going at it with a lot attention on the game, which is something I enjoy being a part of. It was no different when I faced them with Stoke, it’s a great game to play in and feed off the excitement, so hopefully I can help my team get a good result against them again today.”