BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - Thursday, July 16, 2015: Liverpool's assistant manager Sean O'Driscoll and first team coach Gary McAllister during a training session at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on day four of the club's preseason tour. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Gary McAllister “still owes Liverpool”, hails “great affinity” with fans

Newly appointed Liverpool first-team coach Gary McAllister has reminisced about the connection he made with Reds fans during his first spell at Anfield.

Football - Liverpool FC Preseason Tour 2015 - Day 4

The 50-year-old was present for Liverpool’s training session at Brisbane’s Sunlight Stadium on Thursday ahead of their second pre-season friendly of the summer against Brisbane Roar on Friday.

McAllister returns to the club 13 years after leaving, enjoying two seasons as an important figure in Liverpool’s midfield under Gerard Houllier.

“In a short space of time I managed to get a great affinity with the fans,” McAllister told the club’s official website.

“It was a successful little period, it was a short period, but as soon as they came calling I was going to come.

“I owe Liverpool a lot, they gave me five great medals that I absolutely love and adore and I feel as if I still owe the club.”

McAllister is part of Brendan Rodgers’ new-look coaching lineup, having also appointed Sean O’Driscoll and Pepijn Lijnders this summer.

“So far you can see they’re fantastically enthusiastic, they’ve got some wonderful ideas,” he added.

“You can see the quality of their work on the training field. For me, it’s all new, so I’m looking forward to it.

“The players are looking sharp and it’s been nice and intense in training. It’s been exciting stuff.

“It’s been fantastic. I’m as excited as I was when I signed the last time. I’m just looking forward to the season starting.”

Liverpool take on Brisbane Roar at 9:45am (UK) on Friday 16th July. Keep an eye on This Is Anfield for more build-up and coverage.