Benteke: Why I will always have respect for Villa
Christian Benteke has spoken of his admiration for Aston Villa and explained why he will never forget the chance they took on him when he first came to play in England.
It was back in the summer of 2012 when his former club pounced to recruit the then unknown striker from Belgian side Genk, and he proved to be an instant hit as he fired 23 goals in all competitions that season.
The Liverpool No.9 has been denied a reunion at Anfield today due to injury, but ahead of the game acknowledged that his time at Villa will forever be etched in his memories.
Speaking exclusively with LFCTV in ‘Benteke: The Big Interview’, which is available to view now on LFCTV GO by clicking play above, Benteke said: “I have to say thank-you to Aston Villa because when I came here [to England] no-one knew me and who I am now."
The forward also revealed his gratitude to Villa boss Tim Sherwood for the faith and confidence he gave him when he returned from injury to play a major role in helping the Midlands outfit reach last season's FA Cup final.
He added: “I think he’s a good manager because before he came [to the club] we were down [in the league table] and we were struggling.
“He brought some confidence into the team and we played some great football, showed some character and he helped me a lot to get back to my old level.
“He made a situation when I would get more chances to score more goals.
“I spoke with him when I signed for Liverpool. He said 'congratulations and all the best'. I said to him ‘thank you very much, gaffer, and all the best to you’.”