Everton forward Leandro Rodriguez is excited by the test of the Premier League and has described his move to Goodison Park as a “dream”.
The former River Plate Montevideo forward signed a four-year-deal with the Blues last week for around £500,000, and Roberto Martinez has heaped praise on his new recruit.
The Uruguayan believes training with established Premier League stars can help take his game to the next level.
Rodriguez told Everton’s official site:
I watched players like Romelu Lukaku in Uruguay, so I am very happy to be able to play with players like that.
I don’t think there’s any doubt that I’ll enjoy playing with these players – I’m somebody that likes to get involved with my teammates.
It’s a big dream to come to a large club like Everton. It’s also a very big responsibility but I am very confident in my abilities.
I think the coach and I enjoy the same type of football and I’m going to give my best efforts for the Club.
Also, the people in the Club will give me confidence to play.
The 22-year-old scored 19 goals in 71 appearances for River Plate Montevideo and funnily enough, his first goal for the Uruguayan outfit came in a 2-0 victory over Liverpool (Montevideo).
Rodriguez said his major footballing influence was Uruguayan legend Diego Forlan and while he is aware Evertonians may see him as an unknown quantity, the forward described himself as a technical player.
I’m somebody who can work well with other players and I look forward to being able to show myself and my game to the Everton supporters.
Rodriguez will the no.28 shirt at Everton and could make his Premier League debut with fellow South American Ramiro Funes Mori, who signed from Argentinian giants River Plate on deadline day in a deal worth £9.5million.
