Benteke gives Reds 'options'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers backed new signing Christian Benteke to transform his side's play after the former Aston Villa striker's goal secured a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth on Monday.

Benteke struck in the 26th minute at Anfield, prodding home a cross from Jordan Henderson, and the goal stood despite Philippe Coutinho appearing to have been offside.

Liverpool has adopted a more direct approach now that Benteke is on the team and Rodgers is hopeful that the $50.8 million Belgium international's muscularity and awareness will help solve the chronic scoring problems that plagued the Reds last season.