Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers runs rule over Christian Benteke’s wonder goal

Brendan Rodgers heaped praise on “incredible” Christian Benteke after the Liverpool signing scored his first goal in a 2-1 win against Swindon Town in a pre-season friendly on Sunday.

The Belgium international opened his Liverpool account in spectacular style as the 24-year-old controlled a cross with his chest before he unleashed a powerful volley past the Swindon goalkeeper.

Benteke completed a move to the Reds from Aston Villa in a £32.5m deal earlier this month, becoming the Merseyside outfit’s second most-expensive signing behind Andy Carroll.

Speaking to Liverpool’s website following their latest pre-season win, Rodgers heaped praise on the towering striker.

“Christian’s goal was incredible, whether it was a pre-season friendly or in a league or cup game. It was wonderful technique from the big guy,” Rodgers said.

Rodgers also signed Brazil international Roberto Firmino in a £29m deal from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim last month.

And the Liverpool manager talked up the playmaker’s qualities following his 23-minute cameo against the League One side.

“You see his quality. He is really bright on the ball, has got wonderful technique and has got the ability to want to get forward and score a goal.

“For those players it was just getting them into that game situation, which is never easy as they have only been back a week or so. But they adapted and coped very well.”

The Liverpool manager has signed eight players in the summer transfer window, including England internationals James Milner and Nathaniel Clyne.