Serie A Late goal in week one gives Argentine confidence

Gonzalo Higuain has claimed that criticism and jibes about his weight will only succeed in firing him up and making him an even bigger threat in front of goal.

Despite the Argentine being mocked for being overweight during the off-season, he showed no signs of that holding him back on the opening day of the season.

The second half substitute grabbed a late winner against Fiorentina on his debut and is hoping it is the start of a successful period for him in Turin.

Gonzalo, what makes you angry about all of the talk about your weight and your belly make you angry?

"Nothing. On the contrary, it is best that people say it before games because it means that I'm going to score every time."

So, you have no problem [with it]?

"When it comes to criticism, I don't care. I've never had any doubt about my qualities."

How are you these days then?

"I'm fine. I've trained hard for 20 days but I can always improve. Always. That's what I want to do. Here at Juve I'm very happy. I made a choice that wasn't easy but at the same time, I'm sure I made the right one."

You were cheered on during your warm-up, cheered on to the field and cheered even louder when you scored. Could you have imagined that?

"When you here the songs, it makes you feel warm. When you feel that people support you, it gives you an even greater desire to do well. My goal is for them and I also dedicate it to the people who have always been with me and never had any doubts about me."

How did you celebrate?

"In the dressing room we celebrated because it is an important victory for us. We began with three points and we're sure things will get better for us but everyone knows that there are 37 games left and we have to stay calm. I'm at a great club, in a very strong team with a winning mentality."

Your goal: there wasn't much space yet you still found the net.

"From the outside looking in it may have seemed like an easy goal but no, it was hard."

Now do you hope to start against Lazio or do you still need more time?

"I don't decide that. Against Fiorentina, I just tried to do my best for the team."

How is your relationship with [Mario] Mandzukic?

"Fantastic, fantastic. It is the same with him as it is with everyone else, that's how you win trophies."

As captain, Gianluigi Buffon usually welcomes newcomers with motivational speeches. Did he say something to you in particular?

"He told me that he's happy to have me here but everyone in general has been very nice and welcoming to me. All of my new teammates have made me feel like I've been here for a long time and that's very good."

It must be a privilege to train against the best Italian defenders?

"It is a big positive. Playing with the best makes you believe in what you can do."