Nuri Sahin: 'Xabi Alsono convinced me to pick Liverpool'

Nuri Sahin has revealed that a chat with teammate Xabi Alonso helped him choose Liverpool over Arsenal.

The Turkish midfielder, who has joined the Reds on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, admitted that it was a conversation with the former Anfield favourite that swayed his decision.

"When he heard Liverpool were interested in me, he started telling me about Liverpool," said Sahin. "He is still in love with Liverpool, I think!

"He was saying, 'Go there, you will love it. The fans will take care of you and love you' and things like that. He said Anfield is the best stadium in the world.

"Xabi won a lot of trophies here, and hopefully we can do that too."

The former Dortmund man also revealed that he is looking forward to playing alongside Reds captain Steven Gerrard.

"Steven Gerrard is a huge name, not only in Liverpool but in world football. I am looking forward to playing with him - I've played against him once.

"I am looking forward to meeting them all. If I have to choose one name, it would be Steven Gerrard - but it is not only Gerrard."

Sahin will wear the number 4 shirt at Anfield after it was vacated by the departed Alberto Aquilani.