'Feel-good factor is back'

Ian Rush today paid tribute to Roy Hodgson's early Liverpool reign and insisted the new boss has reinstalled the feel-good factor at Anfield.

Related Links

• Video
• Watch LFC Videos
• Buy LFC Shirt

Since taking over at the Reds helm, Hodgson has had Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres commit their futures to the club, while landing arguably the transfer coup of the summer so far in Joe Cole.

And Rush believes there is a genuine air of positivity around Liverpool at the moment.

"Three or four weeks ago everything connected with the club was so negative," he said.

"But Roy Hodgson has come in and helped to transform the mood. He has already proved what a good manager he is.

"With Joe Cole signing, Steven Gerrard committing his future and now Torres following suit it's been a great few weeks for the club.

"Now there's a positive buzz and the supporters are optimistic about the new season."

The good news continued for Liverpool fans on Tuesday as World Cup-winner Torres revealed he is relishing returning to action for the Reds and trying to help bring the league title back to Anfield.

Rush admits he is delighted by the pledge of a man he rates as one of the world's finest centre forwards.

"It's a massive boost for the club," said our all-time record goalscorer. "He is hugely important to the team and it will give everyone a lift.

"The supporters love him so much and he knows how they feel about him."

He added: "He's a special talent and when he's fully fit Liverpool can beat any team in the world with him in the side."

Click the image below to watch our exclusive Fernando Torres interview