Former Liverpool midfielder Steve McMahon has spoken about the club’s forthcoming pre-season friendly matches in South-East Asia.

The Liverpool born former England international played for the Reds between 1985-91, scoring 29 goals in 204 appearances. He went on to play for Manchester City and Swindon before managing Swindon, Blackpool and Perth Glory.

McMahon is part of Profitable Group, the Singapore company who are promoting Liverpool’s friendly games against Thailand in Bangkok on July 22nd and Singapore on July 26th.

The brief tour will be a chance for Rafa Benitez to try out his 2009/10 season plans, whilst expanding Liverpool’s fan base and commercial opportunities in that part of the world.

McMahon says the Thai and Singapore locals will give the Reds a fantastic reception this summer.

“They probably don’t realise what’s going to hit them when they arrive here. They don’t realise the enormity of the support they have here,” he said.

“I just think the players will be overwhelmed by the reception they get.

“I’m excited for the players. I want to make it worthwhile because it’s in my interest for them to do well.

“I know a lot of the players. I know a lot of people at the club. Rafa is excited, Sammy Lee certainly is – he’s always enthusiastic about getting out and travelling.”