In the 2013-14 Premier League season, Liverpool scored 101 goals. The next season without Luis Suarez, the Reds managed just 52.
That’s why they shelled out $50 million for Christian Benteke this summer, who at 24-years-old already has 42 Premier League goals under his belt.
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With a strike-rate of nearly a goal every-other game for a relatively poor Aston Villa side, Brendan Rodgers is hoping the big Belgian will score even more goals now that he is at Liverpool.
The Reds had money to spend after selling Raheem Sterling to Manchester City for a whopping $75 million, but Rodgers insists spending $50 million of that on Benteke was still a bargain.
Speaking to Liverpool’s club website:For me, I think he’ll prove to be a bargain for the club. I really do.
I’ve read and seen things about his game, but in the short period of time he’s been in, I’ve been even more impressed. I’ve seen him up close now for three years, stood at the side of the field and watching this guy - not just his power and strength, but also his footballing ability.
Obviously he doesn’t set the price and I’m thankful the club have brought him in because I really think at 24 years of age, he’s going to be a huge asset for us. He’s surprised people in the early stages of life at Liverpool with that mobility and the quickness of his feet - and his natural power and strength is there to see.
For the likes of Christian, he’s coming in and is one I’m excited about because of what he offers and what’s he’s been as an opponent against us. Coming in to a club like Liverpool, he can be a real hero for the supporters.”
While Benteke isn’t going to be Luis Suarez, he’s going to be asked to score early and often for Liverpool. When in form, Benteke is one of the elite strikers in the league, which was seen when he scored 11 goals in the final 11 matches last season to keep Aston Villa safe from relegation.