Jul 28 2006
By Chris Bascombe With The Reds In Switzerland, Liverpool Echo
ROBBIE FOWLER was today handed the role as 'mentor' for Liverpool's new boys.
Rafa Benitez sees his experienced striker proving an inspirational figure on and off the pitch in the season ahead.
The Anfield boss says Fowler has a presence at the club which will be channelled to positive effect on recruits such as Craig Bellamy and Jermaine Pennant.
And with the Reds' 'new' number nine already showing glimpses of his class in the opening pre-season games, the wisdom of keeping the 31-year-old for another season is already evident.
"When we signed Craig Bellamy and Jermaine Pennant, both mentioned how Robbie was a player they loved watching for Liverpool when they were younger," said Benitez. "He is someone they look up to.
"With Robbie, we have a player at the club who is already a legend for the supporters and some of the players, and that can be a positive influence, particularly on the youngsters we have here.
"They look up to Robbie and admire him and he will enjoy helping them as much as possible."
Fowler has looked sharp in the first two friendlies of the pre-season, turning creator for both Bellamy and Craig Lindfield to hit the goal trail.
He'll be hoping to maintain his form in tomorrow's clash with Kaiserslautern, in a game where Jermaine Pennant is expected to make his debut.
"Robbie has played very good games so far," said Benitez.
"His movement and work for his team-mates have been really good. He is still trying really hard in training and working with Pako (Ayesteran). He knows there is still work to be done on his fitness, but we're happy with him."
Liverpool's English World Cup contingent, including Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher and Peter Crouch, will be given more days training before being considered for selection.
By Chris Bascombe With The Reds In Switzerland, Liverpool Echo
ROBBIE FOWLER was today handed the role as 'mentor' for Liverpool's new boys.
Rafa Benitez sees his experienced striker proving an inspirational figure on and off the pitch in the season ahead.
The Anfield boss says Fowler has a presence at the club which will be channelled to positive effect on recruits such as Craig Bellamy and Jermaine Pennant.
And with the Reds' 'new' number nine already showing glimpses of his class in the opening pre-season games, the wisdom of keeping the 31-year-old for another season is already evident.
"When we signed Craig Bellamy and Jermaine Pennant, both mentioned how Robbie was a player they loved watching for Liverpool when they were younger," said Benitez. "He is someone they look up to.
"With Robbie, we have a player at the club who is already a legend for the supporters and some of the players, and that can be a positive influence, particularly on the youngsters we have here.
"They look up to Robbie and admire him and he will enjoy helping them as much as possible."
Fowler has looked sharp in the first two friendlies of the pre-season, turning creator for both Bellamy and Craig Lindfield to hit the goal trail.
He'll be hoping to maintain his form in tomorrow's clash with Kaiserslautern, in a game where Jermaine Pennant is expected to make his debut.
"Robbie has played very good games so far," said Benitez.
"His movement and work for his team-mates have been really good. He is still trying really hard in training and working with Pako (Ayesteran). He knows there is still work to be done on his fitness, but we're happy with him."
Liverpool's English World Cup contingent, including Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher and Peter Crouch, will be given more days training before being considered for selection.
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