Brendan Rodgers has been confirmed as the new manager of Liverpool.

The 39-year-old has signed a contract with the Anfield club after a compensation package was agreed with Swansea City yesterday.

Rodgers told the club's website: "I'm blessed to be given this opportunity. I want to thank John Henry, Tom Werner and Fenway Sports Group for the opportunity to manage such a great club.

"I'm really excited and I can't wait to get started on this incredible project going forward. I promise to dedicate my life to fight for this club and defend the great principles of Liverpool Football Club on and off the field."

A statement on the club's website said that Rodgers was the "single outstanding candidate" for the role.

Chairman Tom Werner added: "Brendan was the only person we made an offer to. He was the first choice, the right choice."

Werner also thanked previous manager Kenny Dalglish, adding: "We'd like to thank Kenny Dalglish, who is the heart and soul of Liverpool."

Principal owner of the club, John Henry, expects the club to now go on to challenge for the Premier League title in years to come.

He said: "We do not expect miracles overnight nor should anyone else. But we firmly believe that the direction the club is heading in will lead to Premier League championships. We will embrace the unconventional, build the right way and together set a bold, exciting course for this historic club."

Rodgers added that money has been set aside for transfers and that discussions have already been held over possible targets.