Liverpool Sign Sotirios Kyrgiakos From AEK Athens

The Greek has officially joined the Reds today..

Liverpool have today officially confirmed what was reported earlier in the week at Goal.com, and announced the signing of Sotirios Kyrgiakos from Greek outfit AEK Athens.

Reds manager Rafa Benitez was delighted to have snared the defender, who has signed a two-year deal with an option of another year should things go well for him on Merseyside. The fee is believed to be in the region of €3 million.

"He is a tough defender who is strong and good in the air. He has a strong character and we were looking for these things," the Spaniard told 'Pool's official website.

"He can score goals and will be a threat from corners and free-kicks. He's very strong in defence but he will need time as always to settle into the Premier League. He will be a very good signing for us.

"We knew the player when he was with Rangers and we've been watching videos of him at Frankfurt and the national team. Our scout department had a lot of information.

"We've talked about the things he's done before and the things he'll have to do for us. It was good. He knows what we want and he's ready to work."

Benitez also thinks the acquisition of the defender provides some much needed experience for the Reds backline, and anticipates the Greek international helping out the youngsters at Anfield.

"It will be positive. I was talking with Ayala about this. When the young players see someone with experience it is positive because they can learn from them," he added.

"It also means they have more time. If they have to play some games they can but they are not under pressure."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Sotirios Kyrgiakos trained alongside his new teammates for the first time today and our snapper was there to bring you these exclusive photos.

Torres, Voronin and Kyrgiakos.

Testing...testing....

Sotirios Kyrgiakos