'Downing can make difference'
Jamie Carragher is convinced new signing Stewart Downing will prove to be a valuable addition to the Liverpool ranks - both on and off the pitch.
The Reds completed the signing of the England winger on Friday and Carragher believes he can add a different dimension to Kenny Dalglish's array of attacking options this season.
"It's a terrific signing, there's no doubt about that whatsoever," said the vice-captain.
"He's been a top player in the Premier League for the last six or seven years and he will definitely make a difference, with his ability to go outside and down the line to get quality crosses in.
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"I know him, so does Stevie; he knows Andy Carroll and Johnno (Glen Johnson) from playing for England, so he is not going to be walking into a dressing room and be on his own. He will get a great welcome because he's a good lad and a top player as well.
"He was Aston Villa's player of the year and he will give us something that we have been lacking, genuine quality on the left hand side. Every team looking to compete needs quality players in each position and that is what we are getting back towards."
Click on the play button to watch Downing sign in at Melwood
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Meanwhile, Carragher has pointed to the players who have not made it onto Liverpool's tour of Asia as an indication of the strength of squad Dalglish will have at his disposal in 2011-12.
He added: "When you look at the players who have not come out here - Steven (Gerrard), Pepe (Reina), Lucas, (Luis) Suarez, Jordan Henderson, Johnno - they would make the basis of a top team.
"We are not going to make any statements about what is going to happen next season but it's just pleasing that things are positive once again."
