Former Liverpool striker Baros humbled by Banik homecoming

Posted Tuesday, February 26, 2013 by Goal.com

The 31-year-old has paid tribute to Banik fans having eased his transition back into Czech football, but the club coach has warned that the striker may need time to rediscover form

Former Liverpool striker Milan Baros has lauded the support of Banik Ostrava fans having rejoined the club.

The ex-Czech Republic international left the Turkish giants by mutual consent earlier this month and, having reportedly courted the interest of various clubs on the continent, Baros opted for a move to the side he first joined as a 17-year-old.

And upon making his second debut for the club in Saturday's stalemate with Dynamo Ceske Budejovice, Baros reflected on the homecoming given to him by Banik fans.

Speaking to Uefa.com, Baros said: "It was fantastic and great motivation for me. The crowd got behind us for the whole match – I have to thank them a lot. I also hope that next time we will give them more to celebrate.

"I had butterflies in my stomach during the first half. That has not happened to me for a long time. I am glad these feelings came as they mean that I still enjoy football 100%."

The 31-year-old was handed a 20-minute cameo by Banik boss Martin Pulpit, and the coach has stressed the need for patience ahead of Baros rediscovering his goalscoring touch.

"We can tell from what we saw in midweek training that Milan is someone who has played at the highest European level," he said.

"But after a long break, he needs time – three or four matches - to return to the shape in which fans remember him."