Former Liverpool striker Ian Rush has claimed that the club's decision to pay £32.5m for Christian Benteke will be vindicated.

After being put under pressure to strengthen their attack due to Daniel Sturridge's injury problems, Liverpool triggered Benteke's release clause to sign him from Aston Villa in the summer.

The Belgian striker has scored once in his opening four Premier League appearances for the club, and Rush is certain that he will prove to be a success.

"I'm really happy that they have signed him. I think they needed someone like that," Rush is quoted as saying by the Daily Star. "Benteke gives Liverpool a different option and I think he's probably a bit better on the ground than people think. Technically, he's very good but he's also a good get out for Simon Mignolet.

"I think he improved Aston Villa when he was there but playing for Liverpool is another level. You have to be consistent, not in three games out of six, but five games out of six.

"That is the pressure of playing for Liverpool. I'm sure he now knows what it's like and I'm sure he will do well."

Liverpool return to action against Manchester United on Saturday.