Crystal Palace striker says he’s pleased with change of luck, ready to take advantage of it

 

When Liverpool bought Christian Benteke from Aston Villa for a huge fee, it just didn’t work.

More of a target man than anything else, the Belgian striker was never really used to his full potential by Brendan Rodgers and the same could be said with Jürgen Klopp.

Scoring 10 goals in 42 appearances last season, it never felt like Benteke was the right fit for Liverpool, and a transfer to Crystal Palace ensued over the summer.

Since then, the Benteke of old has returned, scoring impressive headers for fun, and the striker has once again found his way into the Belgium national team, called up by Roberto Martinez for his latest squad.

Speaking to the DH ahead of the World Cup Qualifiers against Bosnia and Gibraltar, the former Aston Villa star couldn’t hold back a smile at being back where he belonged.

He said: “I’m not the only striker in form, but I’m good. I’m happy to be in this vein of form, I’m going to take advantage of it. After the bad luck, I’m trying to make the most of my good luck.”

The player went on to explain that nothing’s really changed in his life, just that he’s got a new fresh start, with a manager who trusts him.

He said: “I’m trying to repay through my performances the price they paid for me. I don’t think my form will change things (in the Belgium squad). What’s most important is to be ready, and I am.”

Considering Romelu Lukaku’s form for Everton as well, you would expect the Everton striker to start the big game against Bosnia, but don’t be too surprised if Benteke started against Gibraltar, which should be, on paper, a slightly easier game.