Fellaini ready for English football

Toffees new boy looks forward to robust game

Last updated: 3rd September 2008

marouane fellaini

Fellaini: Ready for big time

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Everton new boy Marouane Fellaini believes his robust style of play is a perfect match for the Premier League, having grown exasperated by over-fussy referees in Belgium.

Having forked out £15million to lure the Morocco-born Belgium international to Goodison Park, Everton clearly have high hopes for the 20-year-old midfielder.

Fellaini was a major star of Belgian football while at Standard Liege, but upon his arrival on Merseyside he has spoken of a frustration he felt with regards playing in his homeland.

No respect

"I am a top player but referees in Belgium do not respect me," he told skysports.com.

"Anytime I put my leg in, there is a yellow card. That is what pushed me to the Premier League.

"There they let you play, it's a man's game there and I'm looking forward to it."

Fellaini admits he was left surprised by both Everton's bid and the swiftness with which the deal was concluded.

"I was not aware Liege were discussing my transfer to Everton," he added.

"I heard about the transfer on 31st August at around 11pm and went to the Sheraton Hotel to meet with the Everton delegation."