Wide receiver Danny Amendola has described Wes Welker as "a great player".

The former St Louis Ram signed for the New England Patriots following Welker's move to the Denver Broncos.

The 27-year-old told ESPN Boston: "As far as comparisons to Wes, I've been hearing it for a long time.

"I watched him play the whole time, he's a great player, he's had a number of Pro Bowls and done a lot of good things to help the Patriots win.

"One of my main goals is to fill my role and try to do what I can to now help the Patriots win as well."

Amendola scored three touchdowns in 11 appearances for the Rams in 2012.