Source: SKY_Sports
Benitez hails Kyrgiakos capture
// A bit of a hack but it works// The article snippet is wrapped onto a second line, even when #article-sub is emptyif( $("div#article-sub").children().length == 0 ) {$("div#article-sub").remove();} Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has spoken of his delight in capturing the signature of Greece defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos.[LNB] The 30-year-old switched from AEK Athens on Friday and has signed a two-year contract with the Reds.[LNB]The experienced international goes straight into the squad to face Aston Villa at Anfield on Monday.[LNB]His signing bolsters a defence currently lacking Danish centre-back Daniel Agger, who is set to undergo back surgery on Tuesday and could be out for six weeks, while Martin Skrtel is still struggling with a damaged jaw and is not expected to be fit to face Villa.[LNB]Tough defenderBenitez told Liverpool's official website: "He is a tough defender who is strong and good in the air. He has a strong character and we were looking for these things. [LNB]"He can score goals and will be a threat from corners and free-kicks. He's very strong in defence but he will need time as always to settle into the Premier League. He will be a very good signing for us. [LNB]"We knew the player when he was with Rangers and we've been watching videos of him at Frankfurt and the national team. Our scout department had a lot of information. [LNB]"We've talked about the things he's done before and the things he'll have to do for us. It was good. He knows what we want and he's ready to work." [LNB]ExperiencedBenitez believes the experienced Kyrgiakos can also help bring on the young defenders at the club, such as Martin Kelly and Daniel Ayala.[LNB]The Reds boss added: "It will be positive. I was talking with Ayala about this. When the young players see someone with experience it is positive because they can learn from them. [LNB]"It also means they have more time. If they have to play some games they can but they are not under pressure."[LNB]
