THERE aren’t many players who turn Real Madrid away from their doorstep.

But then, even on just the evidence of his first few weeks at Anfield, it’s clear there are few players quite like Milan Jovanovic.

The Serbia international’s arrival on a free transfer from Standard Liege has been in danger of slipping under the radar of many supporters, lost in the midst of a summer of upheaval both on and off the field.

Don’t be surprised, though, if that situation soon changes, such is the steely determination and confidence that has proven the cornerstone of the 29-year-old’s career and gives him the unshakeable belief he can make a success of his time at Liverpool.

Of course, if Real had their way, matters would have been different.

The Spaniards approached Jovanovic 18 months ago, only for the player to walk away from negotiations.

It’s a decision that has been handsomely rewarded with another league title at Liege, the raft of Player of the Year awards in Belgium and ultimately a move to Anfield.

Jovanovic is expected to make his competitive debut for his new club this evening as Roy Hodgson begins his tenure as Liverpool manager in earnest with a Europa League third round qualifying round tie against FK Rabotnicki here in the Macedonian capital Skopje.

And the Serbian believes he is exactly where he wants to be; on his own terms, and at the right time.

“I’ve no regrets about rejecting Real,” says Jovanovic.

“Never. I will never go somewhere where I only play a small part. Why? It is better to be happy somewhere.

“It was 18 months ago, when Predrag Mijatovic was sporting director. Ninety-nine per cent of people said they did not understand why, that if Real call, you have to go.

“But maybe I am special.

“I thought if I went it would be as ordinary player, but that if I stayed, I would be where I felt good, where I was a star in Belgium.

“It is only a small league, but we won two titles for Standard Liege and two Super Cups, and I won two personal awards, one from coaches and players and the second from journalists. So I was very happy.

“Real offered me just a one-year deal with an option for two years. I said four, they said no, and so I turned them down. Maybe they are the biggest club in the world, but I knew other big clubs would come.”