Bradley Barcola says he is still some way short of his best at Liverpool, but believes a better understanding with his team-mates will allow him to fulfil his potential at Anfield.
The France international joined Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £123m this summer, becoming another major signing for the Reds.
His start on Merseyside has been gradual, prompting concerns that he may need time to settle, as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz did after joining the club last year. Isak is now beginning to find his form this season.
Barcola has played 12 matches in all competitions for Liverpool and did not record a goal or assist in any of his first six appearances.
There have, however, been signs of progress. He scored a hat-trick against LASK in the Champions League before providing assists in consecutive Premier League matches.
The 23-year-old believes further work with Liverpool’s squad will help him become more influential.
“No, I don’t think I’m at my best yet,” Barcola told Sky Sports. “You still haven’t seen the best version of me.
“On top of that, we’re working with my team-mates, so that they can make the most of my strengths.
“So yes, I think once we really develop that understanding, things will get much better. And I think things are improving all the time.
“People are beginning to understand my style of play much better. I think it’s going much better.”
Barcola arrived following Mohamed Salah’s departure, leading to expectations that he could fill the role of the Egypt forward.
Salah left Liverpool as the club’s all-time leading Premier League scorer, with 191 goals, and its record assist-maker in the competition, having created 93 goals.
“First of all, I wasn’t the one who decided the transfer fee,” Barcola said. “So that’s not been my problem.
“And regarding Mo Salah, he’s a legend here. A huge one. He’s done big things here, and for that I have an enormous respect for him. But it’s not pressure for me at all.
“I’m not Mohamed Salah, so I’m going to try to contribute whatever I can to the club and make my own mark on its history. I don’t feel any pressure about that.”
Barcola made 152 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain in all competitions, scoring 39 goals during a trophy-filled spell with the French club.
He won three Ligue 1 titles, two Champions Leagues, two Super Cups and the Coupe de France twice.
“For me, it was the right time to leave PSG,” he said. “I spent so many great years there, and I won an enormous amount of trophies. But it was time.
“It was quite difficult because, over there, it was a real family. We’d built something very special together. On top of that, it was very difficult to leave and say goodbye to my team-mates. But ultimately, that’s just how football is.
“When a club like Liverpool comes calling, it’s a great thing. I didn’t have any doubts, and I just knew I had to come here. I’m happy to be here, and I hope things go well for PSG.”
