Rickie Lambert aims to "hit the ground running"

New Liverpool striker Rickie Lambert has stated his intentions to "hit the ground running" at Anfield.

The 32-year-old was officially announced as the Reds' first signing of the summer on Monday, after completing a £4m move from Southampton.

Speaking to the club's official TV station, the England international said: "I can't believe it, it's mad, I'm so happy. The [fans] will be happy that I'm a Liverpudlian and a scouser, that'll mean a lot to them.

"But I also know what's important, I've got to hit the ground running, and that's what I intend to do. It means everything to me, but I do believe I can push this club forward as well."

Meanwhile, Liverpool have been linked with Lambert's former Southampton teammate Adam Lallana, and a recent report claimed that the Saints skipper had told the club that he wants to leave St Mary's.