Cavalieri relishing challenge

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri is relishing the challenges ahead with new club Cesena.

The 27-year-old Brazilian switched to Anfield from Palmeiras in July 2008 but was unable to dislodge first-choice Jose Reina and only made 10 first team appearances.

He is now looking forward to playing more with the Serie A newcomers, who are back in the top flight after an absence of 19 years.

Cavalieri, who is of Italian ancestry and holds both an Italian and Brazilian passport, said: "I loved Liverpool, but I couldn't miss the opportunity that was offered to me by Cesena to play in the Italian championship.

"In Brazil there was another club interested in me but there the market closed on August 19th and then there weren't the conditions for the move.

"I am happy to be here, I was immediately impressed with the warmth with which people welcomed me.

"I've been here a few days and I don't know the environment, but I know that this is a fantastic year for the fans, for the return to Serie A after a long time."

He added he is looking forward to competing with rival Francesco Antonioli for the position between the sticks.

"In Italy there is a great tradition of goalkeepers. My model? Is not a Brazilian, but certainly is (Gianluigi) Buffon.

"Antonioli is a good goalkeeper and a nice person, he's already helping me to acclimatise.

"I think the competition between us can be a positive spur to work hard, then the coach will decide.

"I played in the pre-season preparations with Liverpool and I also played in the Europe League, so I feel ready to give 100 per cent right now, but I don't know if I'll play Saturday (in the first Serie A match against Roma).

"The Serie A is a compelling championship, high quality, and I'm strongly motivated to do my best. Trying to block shots of champions like (Samuel) Eto'o will be a challenge for me."

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