Wednesday 29 July 2015 12:23, UK
Asmir Begovic says he has no desire to play second fiddle to Thibaut Courtois at Chelsea.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper joined the Blues from Stoke City on a four-year deal earlier this month following the departure of Petr Cech to Arsenal.
But with Courtois firmly established as Chelsea’s No 1, the move has raised questions of Begovic’s motives.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina international, however, insists he is keen to press his claims at Stamford Bridge this season.
"I want to test myself against Thibaut, he's one of the best goalkeepers in the world but I believe in myself. I want to try and get as many games as I can," he said.
"Hopefully, every time I can show everybody what I'm all about, and ultimately help this team. We all have to play our part and at a club like this I think you get to do so.
"There have been no guarantees. The challenge that's here, the manager and players was what attracted me and that was a big part of my decision.
I want to test myself against Thibaut, he's one of the best goalkeepers in the world but I believe in myself
"I'll back myself, absolutely. I'll be keeping my head down and working hard to see how I can help this team in the future."
By making the move to west London, Begovic ended a five-and-a-half-year association with Stoke - where he had been first choice for the past four seasons - and is embracing the increased expectation levels.
"Even after the first week you can see the quality here and how they can improve you with the levels and demands here," he added.
"It was difficult to leave Stoke after such a long time because of all the ties and relationships I had there. But this is definitely a step up."
