Rickie Lambert signs for Liverpool: England striker secures 'dream' £4m move to Anfield

Lambert scored 117 goals in 235 appearances for Southampton

Rickie Lambert has joined Liverpool from Southampton (Getty Images)

Liverpool today confirmed the signing of England striker Rickie Lambert from Southampton for around £4m.

The boyhood-Liverpool fan, who was born in Kirkby and played for the Reds at youth level, travelled with Roy Hodgson's side to Miami yesterday after putting pen to paper on a two-year contract.

"I can't believe it. I've loved this club all my life. I left here 17 years ago - and I haven't stopped loving it since," the 32-year-old said moments after signing.

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"I have always dreamt of playing for Liverpool, but I did kind of think the chance of playing for them had gone. I didn't think the chance would come.

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"I know how big Liverpool are - and it means everything to me - but I know what is important; I know it's what I do on the pitch and the minutes I play. I know that's what matters, and that's what I'll be focused on."

Saints' chairman Ralph Krueger commented: "On behalf of the club, I would like to thank Rickie. He served with distinction and helped to take Saints from League 1 to the Premier League.

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"Rickie has been a shining light in Saints' growth and will forever remain an icon in the history of the club. He leaves with the best wishes of everyone at Southampton and will always be welcome back at St Mary’s."