Dubai: Al Nasr star-signing Luca Toni has vowed not to become another big-name flop in a league that has recently seen the likes of David Trezequet and Fabio Cannavaro pass through unnoticed.
The 34-year-old Italian 2006 World Cup winner, who has starred for the likes of Fiorentina, Bayern Munich and Juventus, agreed a year-long deal with Al Nasr last week, with the option to extend.
But unlike Bani Yas' Trezeguet, 33, who fled to River Plate after just four games, and Cannavaro, 38, who last 16 matches at Al Ahli, Toni insists he's here for the duration as second-placed Al Nasr try to end a 26-year wait for silverware.
I will give everything
Speaking at his unveiling yesterday Toni, who scored 16 goals in 47 appearances for Italy, said: "I have come here to help the coach, my colleagues, the players and the club.
"I came to win and try to give everything, to give my best in every game to see at what extent we can make it to the top of the rankings.
"This championship may not be on the world map in terms of high level football, but football everywhere is difficult.
"I'm here for the challenge and a new life. I've had experiences in Italy and Germany but now its time for a new challenge.
"I want to tell the public to come and watch to support us and stay until the end. They will experience great joy.
"I was lucky enough to score a lot of goals and become top-scorer of the championships I played in. I hope to continue this here. I like the pressure that comes with expectation because without pressure I am not Luca Toni.
Asked if he would be added to a long list of professionals who have played in the UAE but failed to deliver, Toni said: "No. I have come here to play for one year and after, maybe if the team's happy and I'm happy, we'll continue. Otherwise I will go back. But I've come here to score goals and win.
"Al Nasr coach Walter Zenga called me personally and said you have to come here and try to win the league with me. That call was important. I want to try and win something here."
