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Rafa Benitez believes Sotirios Kyrgiakos will prove to be a 'very good signing' for Liverpool.
The Greek centre-back has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the option of a further year to complete his transfer from AEK Athens.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.tv, Benitez revealed the reasoning behind his decision to swoop for Kyrgiakos
"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," said the Reds boss.
"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.
"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.
"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."
Benitez feels the acquisition of Kyrgiakos will be of benefit to young defenders such as Martin Kelly and Daniel Ayala - with the manager confident his starlets can learn from the experienced 30-year-old.
He said: "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.
"It also means they have more time. If they have to play some games they can but they are not under pressure."