Liverpool Football Club

• Nickname:Reds
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Brendan Rodgers

• Ground:Anfield
• Capacity:45362

Babel reveals Rafa factor

13 Jul 2007 - 08:21:04

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New signing Ryan Babel was persuaded to move to Liverpool from Ajax after being impressed by Reds manager Rafael Benitez.

The Netherlands international forward will put pen to paper on a five-year contract at Anfield on Friday after the two clubs agreed an £11.5million fee.

Babel could form a new-look strikeforce with £26.5million summer arrival Fernando Torres this season - or operate from his more regular wide left role - and is relishing the opportunity to work with Benitez.

"I listened to what they had to say and I got a great feeling about the club," he told Ajax TV.

"I have made a choice with my heart. The coach has big plans for me."

However, Babel revealed he was leaving Amsterdam with a heavy heart after three-and-a-half years in the Ajax first team.

"I am now only at Ajax to say goodbye to everyone and I must say that's quite difficult," he continued.

"I think I will miss the fans, the ones that have always supported me, the guys of course and the coach.

"I certainly leave Ajax with pain in my heart. I will come to Amsterdam quite often and then I will come to visit the club."