Being seen as the best striker in Europe doesn’t spur me on-it’s helping my team to success. That’s my only aim. I’m not a machine.

I can’t think of a striker in the world who has scored so many important goals, never mind a midfielder

At first sight, Shane Long is just a short striker, but he’s good in the air; he’s quick, very dangerous, has good feet, and scores goals

Heading is still a vital part of being a striker, and it isn’t about being the biggest player. Heading the ball is about timing, so work on that in training.

When teams are dropping off, it’s difficult, especially as a striker. You always have two center-halves behind you and maybe a sitting midfielder as well. It’s a bit more difficult creating chances.

I’ve always been working hard on my speed for the last few years. Obviously I’m not slow, but as a striker, the more speed you have, the better you are.

As a striker, as I originally was, and then an attacking midfielder, it has always been my aim in life to embarrass goalkeepers: to dominate them, to force them into mistakes.

Volleyball, I could be pretty good. After a few practices I could be that striker, or whatever they call it.

Every strike brings me closer to the next home run.

Ronaldo was my hero. I loved watching players like Zidane, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo, but Ronaldo was the best striker I’ve ever seen.