Benteke gives us new dimension, says Rodgers

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Liverpool’s Christian Benteke, seen in action during their English Premier League match against Bournemouth, at the Anfield stadium in Liverpool, on August 17, 2015 (AFP Photo/Oli Scarff)
Liverpool (AFP) – Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers backed new signing Christian Benteke to transform his side’s play after the former Aston Villa striker’s goal secured a 1-0 victory over promoted Bournemouth.
Benteke struck in the 26th minute at Anfield on Monday, prodding home a cross from Jordan Henderson in front of the Kop, and the goal stood despite Philippe Coutinho appearing to have been offside.
Liverpool have adopted a more direct approach now that Benteke is in the team and Rodgers is hopeful that the £32.5 million ($50.8 million, 45.8 million euros) Belgium international’s muscularity and awareness will help solve the chronic goal-scoring problems that plagued his team last season.
“I thought he was a real handful tonight (Monday),” said Rodgers. “I think you’ve seen all the facets of his game. His hold-up play is outstanding and he’s got a wonderful touch for a big guy.
“He can help the ball on into areas, he can take the ball in, control the game, switch the game. His touch is good. You see him linking and combining.
“There was one moment when the ball came into the box, which was one of the reasons we looked to bring him in.
“Because of his strength and power, he tried to make contact with it, and we had a chance with Coutinho to then shoot. In my time here, that’s never really happened.
“The ball’s come in and maybe been cleared out, but because of his physicality and his contact, he keeps the ball alive in a dangerous area of the field.
“And that will really help. Once the players get used to seeing that and working with that, that will offer us more opportunities …Read More

Source:: PM Newspaper