The euphoria of reaching a World Cup final may have gone to Dejan Lovren's head in the moments after Croatia defeated England on Wednesday night.
Speaking to beIN Sport following the game, the much maligned Liverpool defender claimed that he is one of the world's best.
"It's something special for me," Lovren said regarding the feat.
From my point of view, people said I had a difficult season but I don't agree.
I took Liverpool to the final of the Champions League. Now with my national team we are in the final.
I think people should recognise that I am also one of the best defenders in the world and not just talk nonsense.
The Croatian defence was run ragged by Raheem Sterling in the first half, one where England should have taken advantage and scored a second goal. Lovren agreed that the first 45 minutes was tough as his side failed to take control of the ball.
Croatia progressing to the World Cup final betters their best ever performance at the tournament by one step. At the 1998 World Cup, they exited at the semi-final stage to France.
"This is something historical for us," said Lovren.
"We will never forget this. We beat our record of 20 years ago and we had it on our shoulders all the time, this weight. People now will never forget us. Now we have a chance to do something even better."
You can watch the interview below.
Dejan Lovren to BeIN Sports tonight “people should recognise now that I am one of the best defenders in the world” pic.twitter.com/HP1VJmYYyh
— Matt Critchley (@MattCritchley1) July 11, 2018
