'You can't say no to LFC'
Jose Enrique admits it will be a special occasion for him when he goes up against former club Newcastle United tonight – but insists the chance to join Liverpool was one he could not pass up.
The Spain full-back spent four years at St James' Park before joining the Reds in August, where he has already established himself as a firm favourite on the Kop.
"It will be a special game for me," said Enrique. "I had very good moments there and I always gave my best for them. They have amazing fans, it is an amazing city.
"I still love Newcastle and will do all my life. But I play for Liverpool now and I want three points because it is important that we beat them.
"I hope their fans understand why I moved. I gave everything for Newcastle, always I gave 100 per cent and nobody can say any different.
"I played in the Championship after they got relegated. I wanted to stay and help because I was part of the reason that we dropped out the division into the Championship.
"But an opportunity to play for a team like Liverpool came along and I couldn't refuse it.
"We are one of the best teams in Europe. You cannot say 'no' when a team like Liverpool comes for you."
He added: "I really enjoy it here because it is easy to play with the players that are here players like Maxi Rodriguez, Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez.
"When you have players like that around you it is easy to play with them and I really enjoy it. I am happy here."
Meanwhile, Kenny Dalglish insists the impact Enrique has made on Merseyside has come as no shock.
The full-back made his Liverpool debut against Sunderland on the opening day of the season less than 24 hours after completing his transfer from the north east - and he hasn't looked back since.
"He hasn't surprised me," said Dalglish. "It was apparent early doors when he came in on the Friday, Jack Robinson got hurt and he had to play against Sunderland. He stepped in and it didn't faze him.
"He got himself off to a good start, he might have wanted a bit longer to bed in but he didn't get that opportunity.
"He's had a good season. In terms of football, he's a good player, and if he's playing with good players then that makes it easier for him."