I'm ready to win my place in Shakhtyor's main staff, says Mkhitaryan

"This is a very important step for me, an important level on my way of perfection [as a player], on my way to big football," Armenian national football player Henrikh Mkhitaryan said in a interview to the secretariat of Donetsk's Shakhtyor asked to share his impressions and feelings about the transfer.

Mkhitaryan was transferred to Donetsk's Shaktyor on Monday after signing a $7.5 million contract with the club - an unprecedented transfer in Armenia's football so far.

"Donetsk's Shakhtyor is definitely a strong team, and it is very important for me to fight for a place in the main staff," he added.

Asked about the role the Champions League played in his transfer, Mkhitaryan said: "Of course, that is not the only question, but the Champions League is very important. Probably, each player dreams of participating in such meetings anytime in his career … but playing in this championship is not only pleasant, but also difficult."

Speaking about his expectations from Shakhtyor he said that one must first of all show a good record before expecting to play in the main staff when one has been transferred in a team like Shakhtyor. He also said that he is ready for any competition.

"I am ready to compete and stand the competition as it will be beneficial not only for me but also for the team. May be my colleagues from Metalurg are a little disappointed but I am thankful them for wishing me good luck in the new team …" said Mkhitaryan, adding that he will play under 22 in Shakhtyor.