Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says his new signing, Rickie Lambert, is one of the most accomplished players he has seen.

The 32-year-old striker joined the Reds this morning, after a deal worth close to £5m, plus add-ons, was agreed between the clubs.

Explaining the decision to sign Lambert, Rodgers said: "I've seen Rickie Lambert over the years and he's one of those players that probably never got the recognition for what a really good footballer he is.

"It's only late on in his career - at 29, 30, 31 - that people are really starting to focus on his qualities. He was probably seen as the traditional big No.9, a British striker that is good in the air.

"But he's one of the most accomplished footballers I've seen. It has been so refreshing that he's got his call into the England team, and he certainly hasn't let anyone down - he has been outstanding.

"Look at his touch, look at the level of his goals, the different types of goals he has scored over his career, and he's a specialist on penalties as well.

"I think he is a terrific footballer and any team he plays against, he's always a handful."