Anfield Red

Liverpool Boss Rafa Benitez has today spoken about finally completing the transfer of Maxi Rodriguez, and how he is positive the Argentine will become a hit at Anfield.

Rodriguez signed on a 3 and half year deal today; much to the delight of the Red’s manager: “We were looking for players with character and a good mentality, He has played for Argentina and Atletico Madrid and is a player with personality.

“He can play in three positions – on the right, left or as a second striker – and is someone with a very positive mentality, which is what we are looking for. He is comfortable on the ball, can pass and keep possession. He is good at getting into the box and scoring goals and a good finisher. Every year he gets five to 15 goals from the right side of midfield.

“I know he was not doing as well as he did in the past at Atletico Madrid, but he is doing really well with Argentina and wants to impress for the World Cup.”

Benitez is looking to Torres and Mascherano to help Maxi Rodriguez settle in on Merseyside: “He knows Mascherano and Torres and he can provide a lift for some players, I think he will adapt to English football because he is a clever player and takes up good positions on the pitch.

“It is a question of adjusting to the pace of the game and he will need some time, but with these players around it will be easier for him.”

Rafa also admitted there was competition for a starting place for Maxi: “Rodriguez will be a different kind of player for us and also competition for Kuyt on the right side, along with Nabil El Zhar and Yossi Benayoun,”

“He will give us the opportunity to manage some of the other players and rest them if necessary to keep the level of the team. I have been talking with him and he is really pleased and ready to come here. I have told him what we are expecting from him and he is ready for the challenge.”