Ian Rush today backed Liverpool's front-line duo of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll to fire the Reds towards success this season.

With Suarez already an Anfield sensation after a blistering few months at the club, and with Carroll having shown signs of his undoubted promise after overcoming early injury problems, Rush believes the signs are bright that the two could forge a partnership to rival the almost unplayable one he struck up with Kenny Dalglish during his own playing days.

"I think if they can gel, which they should be able to, the partnership between Carroll and Suarez could be a really big thing," he said.

"It doesn't matter that they are from different backgrounds. Actually, Kenny and I didn't speak much off the pitch.

"I talk to him far more now than I ever did when we were playing together. We just fitted in because we had different skills.

"I had speed and could finish chances, and he had the most amazing football brain.

"I've watched Andy getting his fitness up to standard on the club's Far East tour and when Suarez gets back from international duty and the two start training together, I'm sure they'll build up a partnership.

"The potential is fantastic. Andy came to us with injuries last season, but in any case your first spell at a club like Liverpool is always an adjustment.

"People forget that I struggled a bit in my first season. But I've no doubt it will come right for him - and quickly, too."

Rush also believes the summer arrival of midfielders Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing will have a positive impact on the form of captain Steven Gerrard.

"One of the best things about when Kenny took over was that - apart from the last two games - we went on a fantastic run. And that was without Steven Gerrard.

"Stevie has now got competition. Fully fit, I'd have him in my side anytime, but I think he'll like the fact that he's going to have to be at the top of his game.

"It will almost be like having another new signing."