Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry is delighted with the return of Sammy Lee as Rafa Benitez's new assistant manager.

Parry, in his column for liverpoolfc.tv, wrote: "Sammy returns as Assistant Manager to Rafa Benitez and he was extremely excited about the challenge when I spoke to him this week. It's a crucial role. Rafa has been extremely keen to get a new right-hand following the departure of Pako Ayestaran.

"He operated for most of last season without a formal assistant and Sammy's arrival is a timely boost, not least because Alex Miller has gone to Japan. I know Rafa is delighted that he has not only secured a vastly experienced coach, but someone who knows our club inside out.

"It's fantastic to have Sammy back. I was particularly disappointed when he left in 2004. I was very keen for him to stay and tried to persuade him that he would have an exciting future under Rafa. Maybe he is better for the experience he has picked up elsewhere, working with the England set-up as well as supporting Sam Allardyce superbly at Bolton where he ultimately stepped into the hot seat himself.

"That didn't work out for many reasons, but no one could question Sammy's knowledge, understanding and enthusiasm for the game. The main thing is that he is back at Anfield in the important role of Assistant Manager and that is a step up from his previous role with us as a senior coach. He comes back at an important time."