Brendan: LFC more than a club
Brendan Rodgers has revealed how he feels he is making a seamless transition into life on Merseyside – and believes the passion for football in Liverpool matches his own.
Ever since he was unveiled as the Reds' new boss on June 1, Rodgers has been busy investigating his new city, which he has described as 'special' following the warm welcome he has received.
"The transition has been very, very easy. It's a real special place, Liverpool, and I found that out very early on," the 39-year-old told Liverpoolfc.com.
"I've spent a lot of time here so far just to try and get a feel for the city and everywhere. I move into a new home at the weekend so I haven't tried to waste any time in getting a base for myself.
"I found out very early on here at Liverpool, it's not just a football club, it's a way of life. That suits me fine because football is my life, my passion.
"Hopefully I can do the supporters proud, I'll fight for my life to ensure we can have success here and make a good start to this season."
The Northern Irishman was not surprised by the warm welcome he has been afforded to date and intends to repay that good will by giving his all to bring success back to Anfield.
Rodgers added: "It's always nice whenever you get accepted well. I've been really drawn to the warmth of the club. However this goes here, I aim to hopefully be here for many years. That's the plan and the idea of coming to Liverpool, that this really can be a destination for me.
"How football evolves, you just never know but what I do know is that the people here at the football club are a class act. The warmth and the hospitality that I've been given in the short time here has taken me back and is something that will always stay with me.
"I haven't been surprised by much. The club is a real institution and a privilege for me to be here and I embrace everything in order to help the club make strides going forward."
Earlier this week, Rodgers described the Reds as the 'perfect club' for him and he expanded on that statement further, citing the club's style of play and conduct as key factors in his decision to swap Swansea for Anfield.
"This is a club that has real integrity and class in how they behave themselves, the players and the supporters," the manager commented.
"This is a club that over many years demonstrated that on and off the field. Their football vision over many years, the Liverpool way of playing, is something that has been renowned for many years.
"I know because of how I work, especially in Britain where maybe the game and game style is slightly different, there are very few clubs where I can go and bring this model and style of football which will actually suit the club.
"Look at Spain - the model of their play and work has shaped the history of the country. What I aim to do is play the Liverpool way, not the Barcelona way, Spain way or Swansea way."
He concluded: "It's over 20 years since this club won the Barclays Premier League so we hope that over the coming years we can look to get closer to changing that because this is a club that should be up there challenging. With everything with it, I believe that hopefully we can do that over the years to come."