Shelvey Happy To Be A Recognised Player

Jonjo Shelvey has spoken of the 'honour' of representing Liverpool and his belief that the challenge of moving away from home can only help his performances on the pitch. Londoner Shelvey moved to the Reds from Charlton during the summer and has shown glimpses of his huge potential in his short Anfield career so far. In just a few months he feels he has matured as a person and as a player. "There were no other offers on the table, but even if there was from one of the big London clubs, I would have chosen to move to Liverpool," the 18-year- old told LFC Weekly magazine. "I realised that I needed to take myself out of an environment where I was comfortable and challenge myself. It's all about maturing and I'm pretty sure that by maturing off the pitch by learning to live by myself, it can help me mature on the pitch as well. "Of course, the lure of playing for Liverpool was a huge thing as well. Just being able to wear the training kit every day is an honour." Shelvey also spoke of the sacrifices he's had to make to become a Premier League player. "When everybody you know is going out every Friday and Saturday night before matches, you're indoors watching Match of the Day. There are times when you want to get out and join them. But I've always stayed in. "It has been worth it in the end, though. I'm lucky. But I've also put myself in the best position to achieve something by making sacrifices."