Christian Benteke to wear No 9 shirt at Liverpool, jersey vacated by Rickie Lambert

£32.5m signing to wear famous jersey

Christian Benteke (GETTY IMAGES)

Christian Benteke has been handed Liverpool's famous number nine shirt.

Liverpool signed Benteke from Aston Villa for £32.5million two weeks ago.

The Belgian made a big impact on his debut last weekend, scoring a stunning volley in Liverpool's 2-1 win over Swindon.

And the 24-year-old has been given a confidence boost ahead of the new season after being confirmed as the club's number nine for the new season.

"Confirmed: bentekechris20 is £LFC's new No.9," a post from Liverpool's official Twitter account read.

Some of the club's greatest players, including the likes of Ian Rush and Robbie Fowler have worn the squad number, which became available following the departure of Rickie Lambert to West Brom.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers hailed Benteke after his maiden strike for the club on Sunday.

"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 told Liverpool's website.

Rodgers has brought in seven new players this summer as he bids to get Liverpool back into the Champions League following their sixth-placed finish last season.

PA