Cheyrou fighting to prove himself

Harry Kewell's arrival at Anfield, along with the Frenchman's below-par performance in the opening weekend defeat to Chelsea, has seen many pundits predict a difficult season on the sidelines for Cheyrou.

A return to Le Championnat was touted during the summer, but the midfielder feels he would be cheating the Merseysiders if he left without proving his worth.

"It does not interest me to return, even if I have been able to," he stressed.

"I have another four years of my contract. I see it myself as poor to leave as a thief, without having done something interesting.

"In relation to my first season, I questioned myself. You have to pass through that in a career. I hope that this will be the last time."

Cheyrou still harbours international aspirations for France, and is keen to have an impact with Liverpool this term.

"It is my intention to realise a big season," he told But.

"That can appear stupid to say in comparison with what I showed last year.

"I have not been been at the height of the coach's expectations of me, Gerard Houllier has said this to me.

"The English are again more sceptical on my subject. But I am able to impose myself. I keep hope for Les Bleus."

The former Lille man is happy to compete for his place with Australian international Kewell.

"I am always all for better players coming to reinforce my club," he stated. "That increases our title chances.

"I accept the competition."