Spain goalkeeper Pepe Reina has backed Barcelona’s signing of his old Liverpool teammate Luis Suarez.
Reina played with Suarez for two-and-a-half years, from when Suarez was signed from Ajax in January 2011 to when Reina left on loan for Napoli last summer.
He has told Mundo Deportivo that Suarez is good enough to fit in to the Barca system and play with Lionel Messi and Neymar, and also dismissed any chance of a repeat of the biting incident at the World Cup that sees Suarez banned for four months.
“He’s fantastic. An exceptional player, very skilful. His signing is a great success for Barca,” Reina said.
“Last year he was elected the best player in the Premier League, but he was the previous season too but wasn’t recognised.
“When we talk about Luis Suarez we use big words. I would recommend him to any team. He has the goal between his eyes.
“I don’t think [there’ll be another biting incident]. In fact, I’m sure that in signing for such a big club he will take the responsibility and not do that anymore.
“Not that Liverpool isn’t big, but Barca is the centre of attention. And if Barca make the effort to sign him I’m sure Luis will return it with interest, with many goals and good conduct on the field.”
Reina went on to say that Suarez is always very popular with his teammates and is a nice person off the pitch, but changes once he crosses the white line.
“He’s a very good boy. A very friendly lad, a hard worker. He is transformed on the field,” Reina continued.
“He’s a player who was formed on the street and when he’s playing he’s an aggressive fighter and goes to the maximum each time. He’s the kind of player I like.
“First we need to see how Luis Enrique wants to play at Barca. In any case, Suarez can be adapted to any team or tactic that has a lot of quality.
“He can play on the left, the right or through the middle. Facing goal or with his back to it and he is the best at shooting on goal.
“He will fit for sure. Good players, if they want to, can always understand each other. Messi and Suarez have so many goals they can destroy any game. And they can play together.
“It’s logical that Leo is the leader in the attack because he’s the best in the world. But if the club has signed Suarez it’s because they believe the team needs his goals and can help improve performances.
“And when Luis has the option he will go for goal. That’s what he does best.”
