'LFC is bigger than I thought'
Stewart Downing has been shocked by the size of Liverpool's fanbase.
The winger knew he was signing for one of the world's biggest clubs this summer, but the number of supporters from every corner of the globe has taken him aback.
"Everywhere we go there seems to be a lot of fans," he told Liverpoolfc.tv. "No disrespect, but I didn't have that at other clubs.
"We have fans all around the world. Especially games like Valerenga. I didn't realise we had so many fans based abroad. It shows you it's a big football club."
Downing is based in the city centre having yet to find a house on Merseyside - meaning he's had a lot of interaction with Kopites during his short time in the north-west.
"I've met a lot of the fans and the people and can sense a buzz around the place," he said. "They ask about the players, about who is fit and the season. They're very nice people, very genuine.
"There's a buzz in Liverpool again. With the money the owners have spent and the way we've started, you can understand that. We've now got to carry it on and give them something to cheer about.
"It's absolutely brilliant playing at Anfield. When I played against Liverpool you always sensed the atmosphere. They don't half get behind their team."
Click on the play button to hear Downing on training and fans
Meanwhile, Downing has revealed what training is like under Kenny Dalglish.
"It's high intensity," he said. "Kenny demands from his players, he wants the best. You train the way you play for him. With the competition we have for places, we have to train well.
"He's pretty laid back but he demands from people, which I like. He's a good man manager. He speaks to you, tells you what he wants from you and the team. He's just a good manager to play for, really - if you ask any of the players they'll tell you that."