Anfield call was too good to resist

Joe Cole today admitted he was honoured to be asked to join one of the world's biggest clubs - and insisted turning Liverpool down was never an option.

The Reds' new number 10 watched Roy Hodgson's reign as Liverpool manager get under way last night with a 0-0 draw against FC Grasshopper here in Zug.

Earlier in the day, Cole had officially put pen-to-paper on a four-year deal after the results from the medical he had undergone on Tuesday came back all clear.

Cole was besieged by well-wishers and autograph hunters as he made his way in and out of the tiny Stadion Herti but was clearly humbled by the reaction and ovation he received.

Now the former Chelsea man is determined to start repaying the faith that has been bestowed him and show why Liverpool were right to trump Arsenal and Tottenham to his signature.

"I'm surprised that the move has caused such a big reaction," said Cole. "It's been amazing really and all I want to do is play for Liverpool and fight for the team.

"Of course I want to play but the big reason for coming here was that it is such a massive club with so much history; I want to help the team improve and if I can do that, I will be delighted."

Liverpool first expressed an interest in Cole back in January and as soon as he heard there was a chance of coming to Merseyside, his mind started to tick over.

So even though they endured difficulties in the last campaign, the England international is adamant that it will prove to be a blip due to the talent that is already at Anfield.

"It was hugely flattering to hear Liverpool wanted me," said Cole. "I know they have watched me since my West Ham days - it's always great when a club like Liverpool are interested.

"I have always had a huge respect for Liverpool. I've enjoyed playing at Anfield and though I have had some wins, I've been on the end of a few tonkings too!

"You have your good days and your bad days but you always enjoy it because it is something special and I can't wait to play there every other week.

"Look at the team we have got; Fernando (Torres) is as good as anyone out there, Stevie (Gerrard) is the same in his position. Then you've got Pepe (Reina), Carra and Maxi Rodriguez.

"The names just roll off the tongue. The important thing is to keep everyone fit and if I can play football and keep fit, it will be great.

"I will need a little bit of time to settle in. I know the fans are great with players if they give 100 per cent every game and that is what I am going to do. I can promise that, absolutely."

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.