Alvarez hoping for long-term Sampdoria stay
Ricardo Alvarez is eager to move on from a torrid spell at Sunderland and remain at Sampdoria beyond this season.
Ricardo Alvarez hopes to secure a long-term stay at Sampdoria following his arrival in January.
Alvarez joined the Genoa-based side on a six-month contract as a free agent after a legal dispute between Inter and Sunderland, where he spent last season on loan, left him without a club.
The 27-year-old is keen to move and get his career back on track, and hopes to remain at Sampdoria beyond this season.
"It's something that is between Inter and Sunderland, luckily I found Sampdoria who were willing to give me a chance," Alvarez told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"It was tough being without a club for six months and nobody was really thinking about me. Luckily I had my family and Velez Sarsfield, who gave me an opportunity to train with them.
"These are all things that have helped me grow and made me who I am. I've learned to look out for myself more.
"Let's just focus on finishing the season well. My hope is to remain here where I am happy."
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Alvarez is yet to score in nine top-flight appearances for Sampdoria, and he admits he needs to become more confident in front of goal.
The Argentina international is targeting a maiden strike in Sunday's meeting with Fiorentina at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
"It's true but I haven't played a lot. It is something I have to improve on as I have to shoot even if it isn't a perfect opportunity," added Alvarez.
"I have to think more like a forward and maybe I will score in Florence, and then I will dedicate it to president Massimo Ferrero who always asks me to score."