By Toby Prince
Photo credit: dailymail.co.uk
At his most frustrated time last season, Liverpool Manager, Brendan Rodgers, was asked what his side were lacking. “Someone to put the ball in the net,” he said, with greater sharpness than any of his strikers had managed for most of the season. Then he walked off.
Liverpool recorded their second consecutive win in the premier league this term after beating new boys AFC Bournemouth 1-0 on Monday night in Anfield.
It was Christian Benteke’s first goal in a Liverpool shirt. Though a controversial one, his strike ensured the Reds maintained their hundred percent record in the league.
The Belgian had only played 116 minutes before opening his Liverpool goal account, an amazing stats when compared to fellow striker, Mario Balotelli.
With the controversial Balotelli, who is more of a spectator these days, watching helplessly from the stands, the £32.5million new man equalled his goal tally of just one goal in the Premier League for Liverpool.
Balotelli’s only Premier League goal for the Merseyside club came in February against Tottenham, six months after joining the club from AC Milan.
He made 28 appearances in all competitions last season but could only manage four goals in all of them.
The Italian acquired more yellow cards (seven) than goals scored last term, signalling his frustration at Anfield.
Rodgers believes Benteke will add more than just goals, remarking how the Belgian’s physical presence is making Liverpool a more robust unit than before.
“I thought Christian was a real handful. His hold-up play is outstanding,” said Rodgers.
“He has a wonderful touch for a big guy and can control the game. There was one moment when the ball came into the box and because of his strength and power he got a touch, it dropped and (Philippe) Coutinho got away a shot.
“I’ve not had another who could do that up front in the three years I’ve been here. It is one reason we brought him in. Once the players get used to that and see it will give us more opportunities. That will come and grow over the coming months.”
